I here on these forums alot about people swapping there rear axle for an axle setup of an explorer?

what are the benefits, what do you gain from that swap?

 

Stronger axle, disc brakes. Easy way to lower or raise your gear ratio. If your lowering a truck you can get a couple inches of drop from it. Pretty much the main reasons

 

how can i tell the gear ratio? just on the diff cover?

because that would be the reason i do the swap.

 

There is normally a metal tag on the diff cover. It'll be like 3L73 88 or 4L10 88, something like that. If it doesn't have an L that means its open.

 

does it not also have 31 spline axle shafts versus 28 in the ranger?

 

i believe it does, im doing a little research.
im thinking about going to a junkyard and pulling one off.

and is there one in specific i should be looking for?

 

95-01 expos and some newer year sport tracs.
You'll have to weld on new spring perches if you want to keep it stock height, otherwise it'll lower you ~5inches. Also new shock mounts welded also.
Try and get as low of mile one you can get so the chances of the l/s still working is greater. Keep in mind gears too. Probably want to do the brakes/calipers while you have it out before swapping. Good luck! Post pictures!!

 

now i got another project
alright...
lol thanks for the help man.

and also i see you upgraded your brake system to the cobra brakes.
was it difficult to mount everything or did it just slap on?

 

explorer swap is easy and the rear disc as much better than the drums.

 

Nah, its all bolt on with the right parts..super easy. Check the how-to section of this site for the write ups i did.