rear axle all the same

[bigcrunch]

Are all the Gen 2 rear axle housings the same as far as VSS on top of dif?
any of these years can be interchanged essentially?

 

[boominXplorer]

Only difference is on the v8 axles, they have tabs for traction bars. Other than that 95-01 are the same housing, gear ratios differ though so check the tag before you buy.

 

[bigcrunch]

Thats good info on the V8 tabs.

 

[bigcrunch]

Did Ford ever put a open dif 3.73 in a V8? So I know before I start the hunt.

 

[koda2000]

Did Ford ever put a open dif 3.73 in a V8? So I know before I start the hunt.

Explorer Axle Codes:
43 Open 3200 3.08
41 Open 3200 3.27
42 Open 4.10
46 Open 3.73
45 Open 3200 3.55
D4 Limited Slip 3200 3.73
D2 Limited Slip 4.10
L73 Limited Slip 3.73

 

[boominXplorer]

It's an option in the v6 for sure but definitely not common in a v8 truck. Most v8s either have 3.55 open or 3.73 ls from what I have always seen.

 

[bigcrunch]

Thanks I have the codes, did ford factory install a 3.73 open in a V8?

 

[Mbrooks420]

I've never seen a v8 AWD with anything but a D4, and I looked at about 50 when I was hunting for my second.

 

[bigcrunch]

Requirement for a factory V8 hot rod,,,

 

[koda2000]

All 4 of my V8's had the 3:73 limited slip rear diffs (D4).

 

[bigcrunch]

Thanks for the updates everyone, I may just go hunt for a v6 3.73 open and weld on the brackets for the traction bars.
This is just a daily driver and I am tired of the turn left right in tight spots rear groan.

 

[boominXplorer]

Just drain your fluid and put fresh 75-140 in it with 2 bottles of Ford friction modifier. I bet it will quiet right up if the l/s binding noise is your only issue.

 

[koda2000]

Thanks for the updates everyone, I may just go hunt for a v6 3.73 open and weld on the brackets for the traction bars.
This is just a daily driver and I am tired of the turn left right in tight spots rear groan.

I've never heard any LSD "groaning" noises on any of my Explorers when turning in tight spaces...? I was wondering why you were looking for an open diff. The LSD 3:73's are much more in demand and easier to find. As long as you use the Motorcraft friction modifier additive with the gear oil they're quiet enough.

 

[koda2000]

Thanks for the updates everyone, I may just go hunt for a v6 3.73 open and weld on the brackets for the traction bars.
This is just a daily driver and I am tired of the turn left right in tight spots rear groan.

I've never heard any LSD "groaning" noises on any of my Explorers when turning in tight spaces...? I was wondering why you were looking for an open diff. The LSD's 3:73's are much more in demand and easier to find. As long as you use the Motorcraft friction modifier additive with the gear oil they're quiet enough.