[MoparLifer]

i am considering swapping the dana35 in my tj for an 8.8 by all accounts this is a wise idea if i'm wanting deeper gears and/or taller tires.

is there any difference between the 8.8's in explorers (that everyone seems to pirate for the axle) and the fox-body mustang? they appear to be the same width 59 1/2" - 60"
i realise there are probably 4x4 boards that i could post on (and i likely will) but i am looking for as many viewpoints as possible and the way i see it, hotrodders are looking for as much strength as 4x4ers.
thanks in advance

[S10xGN]

Fox body cars (and Ranger P/U) will have 28 spline axles, Explorer will have 31 splines...mounting points/style will be different too.

Russ

[johnsongrass1]

I have a freind really into Off Road and we compare differences in Circle Track all the time. I can't however, seem to find the reason the 8.8 and Dana are preferred over the 9".

[pmeisel]

The 8.8 was originally designed to handle F-250 type loads and towing, it should take anything a TJ can do to it.

The 8.8 replaced the 9" mainly due to cost and weight. I think for a drag or circle track car the 9 is probably better, especially because of the easier gear change.

[xntrik]

Originally Posted by pmeisel

The 8.8 was originally designed to handle F-250 type loads and towing, it should take anything a TJ can do to it.

The 8.8 replaced the 9" mainly due to cost and weight. I think for a drag or circle track car the 9 is probably better, especially because of the easier gear change.

The 8.8 was NEVER used in a 250. In fact made a sad showing in the heavy 150s as many puked under towing useage.

[pmeisel]

Originally Posted by xntrik

The 8.8 was NEVER used in a 250. In fact made a sad showing in the heavy 150s as many puked under towing useage.

My apology -- I am working off of my memory talking to design engineers of the day. I had a 250 and thought there was an 8.8 in it but I have never checked the charts....

Anyway it is still plenty strong for a TJ.

[onebadmerc]

I had a 8.8 in my 84 F150 4x4, the rearend didn't even make it to 100,000 miles before it fragmented. I then replaced it with a 9" out of a 1980 F150 and drove the truck six more months and sold it. I still see my old 84 F150 running around with the 9" under it every now and then.