'77 F150 Axles

[Dignan]

Could anybody tell me what the 77 F150 used for axles? I assumed Dana 44 and Ford 9", but I usually get into trouble when I assume something. Also, how much should I expect to pay for these axles, and what is your opinion about fitting them under my explorer? I've heard that axles from an early bronco fit best, but I guess if it doesn't fit that just means you need a bigger hammer right?

 

[Robb]

Yep, HP D44/9"...............the D44 SHOULD be disk brake, but double check it anyway before purchasing. The '77 has the advantage of welded on, and removable c-wedges, unlike the more common '78-'79 HP44.

They will fit under your Explorer, but they are full width (+/- 66" wms2wms), whereas EB D44s are around 60" (I think). The F150 D44 will be stronger, as it is high pinion. It is a great axle to use, whether to decide to cut it down to Explorer width or just run it full width.

Price will vary a lot. I paid $300 for my D44/9........others have paid $500.......others have gotten them dirt cheap or free.

 

[Dignan]

You say the front should be disc brakes. How hard is it to convert the rear or even the front if they turn out to be drums?

 

[james t]

The front will be discs if its a 77. If its drums, then its not a 77 and probably low pinion. The rear can be done dirt cheap, just stay away from "kits".

For the rear
$10 race car weld on caliper brackets
GM "metric" calipers (any 80's GM car with rear drive, Monte Carlo, S10, etc)
Rotors- im using 82 Jeep CJ7 front rotors. They are the right bolt pattern, but you have to machine down the axle flange a tad bit so they will slide over. Im doing it with a grinder, but uh....... you may wanna do it more professional. Ive heard that front Samurai rotors are bolt on on the 9", but ive never seen it done so i dont know for sure.

 

[Bronco638]

Stainless Steel Brake Corporation also makes a conversion kit for the 9" Ford axle. If you don't feel like hunting for GM parts, that is.