I will be putting 33's on my 2002 XLT. I plan to get some 4.10's to compensate for lost power. I've been looking around trying to find what I need, but I'll admit, I'm a little confused. Am I looking for a ring and pinion set, because that's all I can find? Also, will I need to get a new differential case, or will what I have be fine? By the way, it's 8.8 that currently has 3.55's. Thanks!

 

i heard changing gears in an 8.8 is kinda hard

percison gear makes the ring and pinions

 

I've done it and you can actually get gears from a number of places. I have Yukon in mine and so far they're fine. Best to get a "master rebuild kit" and new axle bearings while you're at it.

I posted some notes from my experience in this topic:

https://www.ranger-forums.com/forum2...ead.php?t=6064

I was rebuilding an FX4 L2 axle, which is more like an Explorer axle (31 spline) -- but the ideas are the same.

Welcome to the board, James!

 

Thanks for the info guys. I planned on having the truck into a shop, because I have also heard that changing the gears can be a PITA. My truck has the 28 spline set-up. Will I be ok with just buying new gears... or would a rebuild kit be highly recommended?

 

you should definately get a rebuild kit. most shopd wont do it without you purchasing one...

 

Would it be cheaper for him to find an axle that is 8.8 with 4.10s? Kyle is about to sell one possibly, they can be found on ebay/at junkyards in almost any town.

Aaron

 

truthfully a matching 8.8 but only with 4.10 gears from factory would probably be cheaper and easier...

 

As long as you know the axle condition. The nice thing about spending the money to rebuild yours is that you have a "like new" axle with bearings and seals all renewed.

And yes, as Gil said: get the rebuild kit if you have the install done.

 

Someone's already got dibs on my axle Aaron. James and I talked last night about it, haha. He joined shortly after we talked.

 

Kyle and I talked last night. Can someone show me where one gets a rebuild kit? I keep finding transmission rebuilds.

 

Didn't I put a number in the post I linked? Follow it down and I think I put a name and phone/web on there. If not, I'll get it for you.

 

Sorry, it wasn't there. Here's the guy I used -- he was very helpful and his prices were good.

Jeremy Ayers, J.T. Parts and Accessories (Specializing in Differential Parts and Service)
Phone: 425-879-6192
email: jtsdifferentialsaxles@comcast.net
Website: http://www.ringpinion.biz

 

So this and the 4.10's and I'll be ready to rock?

Also... install is going to run about how much? It's a 2wd, so I am thinking maybe a couple hundred?

 

Yep, but I'd add axle bearing and seals as well. The rebuild kit does the center section, but not the "ends". You can get them locally at a parts store if you like.

It can be even less than a couple of hundred -- depends on the installer; but you shouldn't have to pay more than that, for sure. Guys on here say they got it done for $50 -- but I'm suspicious of the work quality, lol.

 

Thanks! Good info. I'll get back to you guys on how much it cost me