What vehicles have a Ford 8.8 IRS rear end?
The Ford 8.8-inch independent rear suspension (IRS) is a popular rear axle design found in a variety of vehicles, particularly Ford and Mustang models. This rear end is known for its strength, durability, and performance capabilities.
Vehicles with the Ford 8.8 IRS Rear End
- Ford Mustang - The Ford 8.8 IRS rear end has been a common feature in Mustang models, including the S197 (2005-2014) and S550 (2015-present) generations. It provides a robust and responsive rear suspension setup for the Mustang's performance-oriented driving dynamics.
- Ford Explorer - Certain Ford Explorer models, particularly the Sport and ST trims, have been equipped with the 8.8 IRS rear end. This provides the Explorer with enhanced handling and stability, especially when towing or carrying heavy loads.
- Ford F-150 - While the standard F-150 models typically use a solid rear axle, some high-performance variants, such as the Raptor, have been outfitted with the 8.8 IRS rear end for improved off-road capabilities and on-road handling.
- Ford Expedition - Similar to the Explorer, the Ford Expedition, particularly the higher-end trims, has been offered with the 8.8 IRS rear end for improved ride quality and handling characteristics.
The Ford 8.8 IRS rear end is a robust and versatile design that has been utilized in a range of Ford vehicles, from the high-performance Mustang to the capable Explorer and Expedition SUVs. Its combination of strength, durability, and performance-enhancing capabilities make it a popular choice for both enthusiasts and everyday drivers.
What gear ratio is the Ford 8.8 IRS?
The 8.8 was built with the following ratios: 2.26, 2.47, 2.73, 3.08, 3.27, 3.45, 3.55, 3.73 and 4.10:1. Only the 2.73, 3.08, 3.27, and 3.55:1 ratios were available with Traction-Lok. If you decide to upgrade to a Traction-Lok differential, you're limited to the ratios offered at the factory.
What year did Ford use a 8.8 rear end?
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. Ring, pinion and carrier all remained between the solid axle and independent rear suspension.
How much horsepower will an 8.8 rear end handle?
Shelby Allen it will take a lot of fab work to change the rear end in the falcon. No bolt in all custom!!!! Shelby Allen not necessary a stock 8.8 can easily handle 1200 hp as long as the tubes are welded to the housing.
How do you tell if you have a Ford 8.8 rear end?
You can identify a Ford 8.8 rear end by looking at the differential cover's shape, which is square with rounded corners, unlike the more circular 7.5-inch cover. Other methods include checking the axle tag for "88" in the ratio code, or visually identifying the axle tubes or the flat edges of the housing.
Visual identification
This video explains how to tell the difference between a Ford 7.5 and 8.8 rear end visually: 1mRegular Car ReviewsYouTube · Oct 30, 2015
- Differential cover: The 8.8's cover has a square-like shape with four rounded corners. In contrast, the 7.5-inch cover is more circular.
- Axle tubes: The 8.8's axle tubes are generally tapered where they meet the center section, while the 7.5's are a consistent diameter all the way through, although this can vary by application. The 8.8 is also taller than the 7.5.
- Housing: The housing of an 8.8 has flat edges, especially on the sides at the 3:00 and 9:00 positions, whereas the 7.5's edges are more rounded at those points.
Identification by tag
- Find the tag: Look for an identification tag bolted to the differential cover or a barcode sticker on the axle tube.
- Read the code: A tag on a Ford axle will have a code that indicates the ratio and differential size.
- Locate "88": The "88" in the code signifies an 8.8-inch ring gear. The numbers before it represent the gear ratio, such as 373 for a 3.73 ratio.
- Look for "L": An "L" between the first two numbers indicates a limited-slip differential, for example, 3L73.
- Example: A code like 3L7388 would mean a 3.73 ratio with a limited-slip differential in an 8.8-inch housing.
Other methods
- Check the axle's origin: Some axles have casting numbers or part codes on the housing that can be used to identify their origin.
- Determine the vehicle's axle code: Some vehicles have a 2-digit axle code on a door panel sticker, which can be looked up in the owner's manual or online to determine the axle ratio and type.
