As a senior car enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of owning and modifying various types of vehicles over the years. One of my favorite trucks to work on is the Ford Ranger. In particular, I want to talk about the Ford Ranger 8.8 rear end and why it is such a popular upgrade for enthusiasts.
What is the Ford Ranger 8.8 Rear End?
The Ford Ranger 8.8 rear end is a differential that was first used in the Ford Explorer in 1991. It is a strong and durable rear end that can handle a lot of power and torque. The 8.8 refers to the ring gear size, which is 8.8 inches in diameter.
Why Upgrade to the Ford Ranger 8.8 Rear End?
There are several reasons why enthusiasts choose to upgrade to the Ford Ranger 8.8 rear end. One of the main reasons is the strength and durability of the rear end. It can handle a lot more power and torque than the stock rear end that comes with the Ranger. This makes it ideal for those who want to increase the power output of their truck.
Another reason to upgrade to the Ford Ranger 8.8 rear end is the availability of aftermarket support. There are many companies that make performance parts for this rear end, including gears, lockers, and axles. This allows enthusiasts to customize their rear end to their specific needs and preferences.
How to Upgrade to the Ford Ranger 8.8 Rear End
Upgrading to the Ford Ranger 8.8 rear end is not a difficult process, but it does require some mechanical knowledge and experience. The first step is to find a donor rear end from a Ford Explorer or Mercury Mountaineer. This can be done at a junkyard or through an online forum or marketplace.
Once you have the donor rear end, you will need to remove the stock rear end from your Ranger and install the 8.8 rear end. This will require some cutting and welding to the frame, as well as some modifications to the driveshaft and brake lines. It is recommended that you have a professional mechanic or fabricator perform this work, unless you have experience with these types of modifications.
Benefits of Upgrading to the Ford Ranger 8.8 Rear End
There are several benefits to upgrading to the Ford Ranger 8.8 rear end. The first is increased strength and durability, which allows for higher power and torque output. This can be beneficial for those who use their truck for towing, hauling, or off-road activities.
Another benefit is increased aftermarket support. There are many companies that make performance parts for this rear end, which allows enthusiasts to customize their truck to their specific needs and preferences. This can include gears, lockers, axles, and other upgrades.
Conclusion
The Ford Ranger 8.8 rear end is a popular upgrade for enthusiasts who want to increase the strength and durability of their truck. It is a strong and durable rear end that can handle a lot of power and torque, and there is a lot of aftermarket support available for it. If you are considering upgrading your Ranger, the 8.8 rear end is definitely worth considering.