How do you tell if you have a 7.5 or 8.5 rear end?
Determining whether you have a 7.5 or 8.5 rear axle is an important step in understanding the capabilities and specifications of your vehicle. This information can be crucial when it comes to maintenance, upgrades, or even identifying the correct replacement parts. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of identifying your rear axle type.
Identifying the Rear Axle Type
The easiest way to determine your rear axle type is to look for the axle housing diameter. A 7.5-inch rear axle will have a housing diameter of 7.5 inches, while an 8.5-inch rear axle will have a housing diameter of 8.5 inches. You can typically find this information on a tag or sticker located on the rear axle housing or differential cover.
If you don't have access to this information, you can also try the following methods:
- Measure the diameter of the rear axle housing. Use a tape measure or caliper to get an accurate measurement.
- Check the vehicle's owner's manual or service records, which may specify the rear axle type.
- Consult with a professional mechanic or automotive specialist, who can help you identify the rear axle type based on the vehicle's make, model, and year.
Knowing the exact rear axle type is important, as it will determine the appropriate parts and components you'll need for any repairs or upgrades.
Differences Between 7.5 and 8.5 Rear Axles
The primary difference between a 7.5 and 8.5 rear axle is the size and strength of the components. The 8.5-inch rear axle is generally considered to be more robust and capable of handling higher horsepower and torque levels than the 7.5-inch axle. This makes the 8.5-inch axle a popular choice for high-performance or heavily modified vehicles.
Additionally, the 8.5-inch rear axle may offer a wider range of gear ratio options, allowing for better optimization of power delivery and fuel efficiency. However, the 7.5-inch rear axle is still a reliable and capable option for many vehicles, particularly those with more moderate power and performance requirements.
Ultimately, the choice between a 7.5 or 8.5 rear axle will depend on your specific vehicle, its intended use, and your performance goals. Consulting with a professional can help you make the best decision for your needs.
How do I know if my rear end is 9 inch?
Ford 9 inch rear end identification is easy and can be accomplished with nothing more than a deep socket as a “go-no-go” gauge for the bottom two retaining nuts on the center section.
What did the 8.5-10 bolt come in?
8.5/8.6 Housings:
The best 10-bolt, the 8.5 and later 8.6 design can be found in the following GM vehicles: 70-77 GM A-body. 70-96 B-body. 75-78 E-body.
What Ford has a 8.8 rear end?
8.8 Solid Axle
Ford first used the 8.8 axle in 1983 model year trucks and is still in production for the Ford Ranger and Ford F-Series. It was also used in the Ford SUVs until Independent suspension replaced the solid axle.
What cars have an 8.5 rear end?
You can find a 10-bolt 8.5-inch differential in any of these cars or trucks:
- 1970-'81 Chevrolet Camaro.
- 1970-'81 Pontiac Firebird.
- 1971-'76 Chevrolet Impala and Caprice.
- 1971-'81 Buick Centurion, Electra, Electra 225, and LeSabre.
- 1971-77 Pontiac Grand Prix.
- 1971-'77 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
How to identify an 8.8 rear end?
Almost all 8.8s—and all post-1986 Ford rearends—have letters and numbers. The first number refers to the plant where it was built, and the next three refer to the ratio and type.
How do I know what rear end I have in my Chevy truck?
Identify your GMC or Chevrolet rear end gear ratio by the RPO Codes, usually located on the placard labeled “Service Parts Identification” inside the drivers door panel or glove box. Note that using the RPO code for parts identification assumes that the rear end has not been previously modified!!
How do you tell what size rear end you have?
The axle may have a sticker, and on the differential cover, you might have a small metal tag that's sticking out that will have the gear ratio stamped on it.
How do I identify a GM 7.5 rear end?
The 7.5 rearend uses an oval cover and the housing has two small cast-in protrusions near two of the bottom cover bolts. The control arm-mounting ears on top of this 7.5 rearend denotes it is usable for any 1978-'88 GM A or G-body intermediate like a Cutlass, Monte Carlo, El Camino, Malibu, Regal, or Grand Prix.
How do you check rear end ratio?
Number maybe try that leave one tire on on the ground and then spin your tire two full revolutions. And count your drive shaft turns. Okay so here we go you can see that I've got two pieces of tape
How can you tell the difference between a 7.5 and 8.8 rear end?
When working with a Rear Gear Set, here are a couple of things to check:
- Measure the diameter of the ring gear. A 7.5 Ring Gear will measure 7.5. An 8.8 Ring Gear will measure 8.8.
- You can also count the splines on the Pinion Gear. A 7.5 Pinion will have 28 splines & an 8.8 pinion will have 30 splines.
