If I go with an explorer axle, will my existing drive shaft just bolt right up? I have an 88 standard cab 2.9l 5 speed. Did all explorers have rear disc, and will I have any problems with the way the disc brakes function?

 

not all explorers have disc brakes. yes, the existing drive shaft should bolt right up to the axle. you will need a axle under conversion kit (remount the perches) in case you didnt know that already.

 

Is there certain years that had disc brakes or do I just need to look and see.
Im goint to do an axle over spring to drop the rear. Will the disc brakes work ok with my current brake system.

 

im pretty sure you can find discs and drums across all years.
no, you will have to convert your current brake system to use disc brakes. they make kits for that as well.

 

95+ 4x4 have discs for sure. When they went to the IFS front, the higher end ones got discs.

There are two issues with disc brakes:

1. You need flex lines in the back, not the "hard piped" lines going to your drum brakes
2. The pressure balance front to rear needs to change

As mentioned, you need to cut off and reweld the spring perches. Pay attention to pinion angle.

 

Would the perches be ok since I want to be srping under to drop the rear. Physic ally getting the brake lines hooked up is no problem. I manage at an auto zone so finding all that is no problem. The part I may have trouble with is how to get the brakes to function properly. How do I know what ratio is in my ranger?

 

No, i'm pretty sure the exploder perches are wider than our ranger springs. You'll still have to re-weld some onto the axle. IMO, i would not re-use the factory perches after cutting them off. I would go to an aftermarket shop, you can buy a pair for 20 some odd dollars. Thats what we did to lower my friend Elliotts truck, flipped the springs under.