@ernzo
What is unknown here is that Explorer uses an aluminum alloy 8.8 center section, and Mustang Cobra may not have. Are internal "guts" dimensions the same for aluminum as for cast iron?
Certainly, the needed parts to convert are available specced out for Ex. But setting up the gear set using the new Locking diff, is no trivial matter. If one has never attempted it, study up, and try it! Be prepared to understand and work with bearing preload limits on both pinion and ring gear, as well as gear tooth contact pattern adjustment.
Horrible results happen from a F. U. I know. imp
8.8s are generally all the same dimensions. That carrier technically is for an IRS Mustang but can fit in any solid axle. A carrier taken from a solid axle may not work in a 3rd gen X, mustang cobra or thunderbird (well that has 28 spline and you would need different axles) but because the side pinion gears lack machining for a circlip. The Cobra carrier though is universal, That being said
1) The ABS tone ring may have to be swapped, if your existing setup has one, or get a new one for around 20 bucks (heat it up and drop it on)
2) Your ring gear gets reused, must be heated to 250 degrees or pressed on. Gets a bit more tricky without a press, New bolts highly suggested, they are 10 bucks a set, I got everything from American Muscle,
3) Your old shims will very likely get you to the 8-14 backlash spec (because the carrier is made by Ford). Needs an inexpensive moon shape tool to get them back in, they are cast iron and may shatter with a hammer alone. If that don't work though you have to use stackable shims, and there is a kit with a flanged retainer that holds the stackable shims together(vs without that may come loose, the factory ones are best)
4) Pinion does not have to be touched unless it is making noise(probably a good idea though to replace). If you replace the pinon bearings thing do get more complicated, and a press is suggested. I didn't change my Pinion bearing, but it was fine. That thick gear oil is very good stuff and required by Ford for almost anything now, especially the explorers.
Agreed, he should spend a few hours reading forums and watching YT vids before attempting. There are very good vids teaching how to repair the Explorer pumpkin, Good thing is you can take it in the house and work on it off the vehicle.
This isn't changing a Tire and probably cost at least 800 for a place to do. Not Goomer work.
That being said there are some special skills and tools needed to complete. As you say messing this up will destruct your rear end, but it can be done correctly.
