Differential swap

1994 FORD RANGER
108,000 MILES • 2.3L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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GOGOJUICE6
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  • 76 POSTS
I'm thinking about swapping my original 7.5 /3.45 g.r differential for a 8.8/3.73 limited slip differential. Is that a smart move? I need a little more speed and less fish tailing.
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks a lot.
Jan 12, 2022 at 5:21 AM
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SQM
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

If you are planning to get a complete rear axle then, those axles can be swapped. However, you want to stay within the same year for the replacement axle. As there are length differences for some of them.

As for if this is a good move, it will all depend on what you wish to get out of the truck. As for drivability or performance. So, it could be a good move if that is the direction you want to go. But there are no other known issues with swap of this kind.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-differential-works

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.
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Jan 12, 2022 at 6:17 AM
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GOGOJUICE6
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  • 76 POSTS
Great...now, the differentials I've checked all have the 10" brake shoes. Mine are 9". Does it make a difference (other than bigger drums) as braking goes?
Again, thanks for such a fast and awesome response.
Jan 12, 2022 at 9:53 PM
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SQM
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
If you are getting the complete axle with new brakes, then it should not be an issue. Just make sure that the inner diameter of the wheel is larger enough to accommodate the larger drum.
Jan 12, 2022 at 10:37 PM
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