Im interested in a 3.27 ratio for my 2wd. But I know nothing about this. I've been searching a couple of hours and have read swapping the entire axle OR differential (Im unclear) would be the wisest choice as opposed to a ring and pinion gear by themselves. And a mustang 7.5 differential could be used. So is there a thread/website/manual/video about what is involved and what parts I actually will need? thanks much

 

when i did my explorer axle swap, i got 3.27 gears. it was a pretty easy, basic bolt in. however, it does lower the rear 4-5". but that's what i needed. in the process, i also gained limited slip and disk brakes.

 

^ is that explorer a 8.8 differential? And would swapping ring & pinion gears have been a cheaper/easier job?

 

Yes, Explorers are 8.8s. If you've never done a gear swap yourself then yes it'll be a easier job just swapping a whole rear end.

 

yep, 8.8 but 31 splines instead of the ranger 28 spline.

 

does anyone know if a 7.5 mustang rear end would work? could I use my existing drum brakes? and would I need to remove and relocate the shock mounts?. thanks

 

the mustang axle will not work. the center sections are centered where as the ranger is offset to the passenger side. however, the ring and pinion should work as long as you are going back in the same size differential.

 

That and the Mustang axle would be a lot more work... there are a lot of brackets that need to come off. I just went through it putting one in my '68.

 

I believe WMS to WMS is too narrow also.