Hi Guys.
Researching Ranger differentials and want to confirm a few things.
I am building a 1951 Chev Tin Woody Station Wagon. I need a differential that is 56 inches wide with close to a 9 inch ring gear.
In my research, I am finding that a 1990-92 Ranger with V6 engine models will have the diff I need?
I have an S10 rear end from the Extreme model 2WD but it is TWO inches too short for me at 54 inches between wheel mounting surfaces (now for sale and VERY RARE!)

I also think the FX4 model had 31 spline axles?
What gear ratios are common on these?
Can anyone confirm the actual width of the diff between axle mounting surfaces (outside drum to drum)? 56”? 56.5”? 57”?
Were disc brakes an option on any 8.8 inch diff from the 90-92 Ranger? I think only in the Explorer - right?
How about Posi? Traction-Lok?

Thanks Boys!
Alan

 

The Ford 9" had larger width, 57.25 was the narrowest
Good read here on the Ford 9": Ford 9-Inch Axles

Only a .75" difference from the 56.5" 8.8 Ranger width

There is a mistake in the above link I think, it has:
"56" for the 1971-1973 Mustangs - cars with 351 engines and up receiving the 9-inch housings."
Not sure how that would work, 61" was listed for those years elsewhere.

Ranger 8.8" did have 56.5" width from 1990-1992(first generation) and 4x4s usually had traction-loc(L/S) in the rear, I think 8.8 were only used on 4.0l models, '93(2nd Gen) saw the switch to 58.5" width, and no rear discs or 31-spline were used on 56.5" axles.
Explorers always used 59.5"

Info here: Ford Ranger/Explorer 8.8-Inch Axle

Says the 8.8 with 56.5" width was used from '83 to '92 on Rangers, but can't confirm that, I know the 4.0ls would get these, not sure on the 2.8l or 2.9l