Most Ford Explorers from 1991 to 2001 came equipped with the 8.8 rear end. The 8.8 rear end is a C-clip rearend and is known for its strength and durability. However, it is important to note that not all Ford Explorers within that time frame had the 8.8 rear end. Some earlier models had different rear end configurations, such as the 7.5-inch rear end. Additionally, the Ford Explorer switched to an independent rear suspension in 2002, so models after that year do not have the 8.8 rear end.
Contents
- What vehicles did the Ford 8.8 rear end come in?
- Why is the Ford 8.8 rear end so popular?
- How do I know what Ford rear end I have?
- How do I know if I have 8.8 or 9.75 rear end?
- Why is the Ford 8.8 so good?
- How do I know if I have a 8.8 rear end?
- How do I identify the 8.8 axle on my Ford Explorer?
- What year Explorer came with 8.8 rear end?
- What rear end is in a 1998 Ford Explorer?
- What gear ratio is the Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end?
What vehicles did the Ford 8.8 rear end come in?
Common Applications
- 1986-2014 Ford Mustang.
- 1982-2012 Ford F-150.
- 1982-1996 Ford Bronco.
- 2001-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac.
- 1991-2011 Ford Ranger 4.0L models.
- 1991-2001 Ford Explorer (Solid axle)
- 1985-2011 Ford Panther platform vehicles.
Why is the Ford 8.8 rear end so popular?
Enter the 8.8
Among the options they explored was the Ford 8.8-inch rear end. These units can withstand considerable abuse, as proven for decades by the Ford racing community. And, unlike the 9-inch, the 8.8’s pinion gear doesn’t have the extreme low offset on the ring gear, so it runs more quietly.
How do I know what Ford rear end I have?
It’s an 8 point 8 inch differential. Sometimes they’ll have a limited-slip.
How do I know if I have 8.8 or 9.75 rear end?
On the passenger’s side upper and lower corners, there’s two semi-circular divots that can easily be seen when looking at the cover from straight on. While the Super 8.8’s cover has a bulge for the ring gear, it’s not anywhere near as pronounced as the 9.75’s.
Why is the Ford 8.8 so good?
The original Fox-body 8.8 used from ’86-’93 can be easily upgraded with better axles, a stronger limited slip with more clutches, and bigger axle bearings to become a very durable yet light rearend assembly. And the best part is you won’t spend a ton of money to get there.
How do I know if I have a 8.8 rear end?
A Ford identifying tag is attached to one of the rear cover bolts. The four-letter code on the top right of the tag will be a dead giveaway as to whether you have found an 8.8-inch axle. The first three digits of these codes are listed with the original applications mentioned on the chart.
How do I identify the 8.8 axle on my Ford Explorer?
More Ford 8.8 Rear Axle Details
The ID tag can be your friend. It will tell you the gear ratio, rearend style, and whether it has limited-slip. Also on the tag is an ID number, which, until 1985, included four to five letters, no numbers. Almost all 8.8s—and all post-1986 Ford rearends—have letters and numbers.
What year Explorer came with 8.8 rear end?
Word to the wise: Most ’91-’01 Ford Explorers came equipped with 31-spline 8.8s. The 8.8 is a C-clip rearend, which is another major weakness—if you break an axleshaft, it can come out of the housing, and you’ll lose the wheel and probably your quarter-panel along with it.
What rear end is in a 1998 Ford Explorer?
Ford Explorer Rear Differential 8.8-Inch 1998-2002.
What gear ratio is the Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end?
This Rear diff can be configured with either a 3.55 or 3.73 gear ratios and has an open differential to match the stock configuration of your Explorer SUV.
