Greetings all. I need help with a proposed rear axle swap. If I replace my 7.5 with a 8.8 from an explorer, how will it affect driving? Thanks in advance for your help and assistance.

 

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It won't effect driving if done correctly, the spring perches need to be cut off and reweld to top of the axle housing for use on a Ranger, and they need correct alignment or it will effect 4-wheel alignment causing poor tire wear

But the axles themselves are the same as far as drive-ability

If going for disc brakes on the rear then they are less likely to lock up on slippery roads but because its a pick up truck the rear wheels can still lock up if bed has no weight in it

 

Gotcha Ron D, would any parts like the yoke need to be replaced? I'm looking at one within the same year as my Ranger. Thanks again.

 

No, I think rear u-joint is the same, if not you can always get a two size u-joint to make it work
On the V6 Rangers its the same

 

Yes, though the donor has a 2.5 instead of a V6.

 

Donor is an explorer so has a V6 or V8

 

Let me be specific, my truck has a 2.5. So engine shouldn't be a problem?

 

No, shouldn't be a problem

 

Sorry for the confusion on my part.