How wide is a Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end?
The Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end is a popular choice for vehicle enthusiasts and mechanics due to its durability and versatility. Whether you're considering it for a custom build or simply need to replace a rear axle, understanding its dimensions is crucial. In this article, we’ll explore the width of the Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end and why it’s a sought-after component in the automotive world.
Dimensions of the Ford Explorer 8.8 Rear End
The Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end is approximately 59.5 inches wide from flange to flange. This measurement refers to the distance between the outer edges of the axle flanges, which is critical for ensuring compatibility with your vehicle. This width makes it slightly narrower than some other Ford 8.8 rear ends, such as those found in the Ford Mustang, which are typically around 61 inches wide.
Why Choose the Ford Explorer 8.8 Rear End?
The Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end is a favorite among car enthusiasts for several reasons:
- Strength: The 8.8 rear end is known for its robust construction, making it suitable for high-performance applications.
- Availability: Since the Ford Explorer was a widely produced vehicle, its rear ends are relatively easy to find in salvage yards or through aftermarket suppliers.
- Disc Brakes: Many Ford Explorer 8.8 rear ends come equipped with factory disc brakes, which can be a significant upgrade for older vehicles with drum brakes.
- Aftermarket Support: There is a vast array of aftermarket parts available for the 8.8 rear end, allowing for customization and performance enhancements.
Applications and Compatibility
The 59.5-inch width of the Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end makes it a versatile option for various vehicle builds. It is commonly used in:
- Hot rods and custom builds where a narrower axle is desired.
- Off-road vehicles that require a durable and reliable rear axle.
- Classic car restorations where modern components are being retrofitted.
However, it’s essential to measure your vehicle’s axle housing and wheelbase to ensure proper fitment. Modifications such as spring perches or shock mounts may be necessary to adapt the Explorer 8.8 rear end to your specific application.
Conclusion
The Ford Explorer 8.8 rear end, with its 59.5-inch width, is a reliable and versatile choice for a wide range of automotive projects. Its strength, availability, and aftermarket support make it a go-to option for enthusiasts and mechanics alike. If you’re considering this rear end for your vehicle, be sure to verify its compatibility and make any necessary adjustments for a seamless installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Dana 60 wider than a Dana 44?
Although the Dana 44 and Dana 60 differential covers look similar, their sizes are significantly different. The Dana 44 differential cover will measure about 9 1/2 inches wide and 10 1/2 inches tall, while the Dana 60 differential cover will measure about 11 1/4 inches wide and 12 inches tall.
Are all Ford 8.8 rear ends the same?
8.8s native to Mustangs, however, have axles that are the same length side-to-side. The '86-'93 Mustangs have 29.063-inch axles, and the rearends measure 59.25 inches from axle flange to axle flange. The '94-'98 axles are ¾-inch longer, making their rearends 1.5 inches wider overall.
What is the strongest Ford rear end?
What Makes the 9-inch Ford Rearend So Great? From the archives: Legendary tech guru Marlan Davis explains why the 9-inch Ford is the strongest rearend out there—it's all due to “hypoid distance.”
Are Ford 8.8 rear end strong?
Intended to replace the 7.5-inch rear end that had been common on Ford's compact and mid-size models towards the end of the 1970s (and which continued to be used by low-powered FoMoCo options throughout the 1980s), the 8.8 was roughly a third again as strong.
How wide is a Fox body 8.8 rear end?
The Ford 8.8 Mustang Rear End
| Vehicle Application | Axle Width (inches) |
|---|---|
| '86-'93 Ford Mustang 8.8 | 59 11/44 |
| FORD | |
| '65-'66 Mustang | 57 11/44 |
| '67-'70 Mustang 8.0 | 59 51/48 |
What is the width of a 9 inch Ford rear end?
Common Ford 9" Axle Housing Widths
- 65-66 Mustang = 57.25 inches.
- 67-70 Mustang = 59.25 inches.
- 71-73 Mustang = 61.25 inches.
- 77-81 Versailles = 58.50 inches.
- 67-73 Mustang, Torino, Ranchero, Fairlane = 59.25 inches to 61.25 inches.
- 57-59 Ranchero and Wagon = 57.25 inches.
Is a Ford 8.8 the same width as a Dana 35?
the 8.8 is 1 1/4 narrower than the dana 35. it is 5/8 narrower per side.
Why is the Ford 8.8 rear end so popular?
And Broncos especially the four-wheel drive models and those with bigger engines. But not always because mine's a 300. And it's got an 8.8.
Can you fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in a Ford Explorer?
Fold-Flat Seats
Whether fitted with second-row Captain's Chairs or bench, the Explorer will swallow up a 4×8 sheet of plywood.
How big is the back of a Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer caters to your requirements, whether you're hauling groceries or essential belongings. The vehicle's rear offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space. By folding the third-row seats, you can expand this to 47.9 cubic feet.
