axle code question

[big_hoovie]

I recently learned that there were two different rear axles installed by Ford: a conventional rear axle, and a 8.8", and I was wondering if looking at my axle code will tell me which I've got. The code on the door sticker shows 45.

any help?

 

[MrShorty]

If you have a '91-'01 Explorer, then you have a Ford 8.8 inch rear axle (because that's the only axle Ford put in these). Not sure what you mean by "conventional" axle, but the 8.8 is a pretty standard semifloating design. They came with a variety of gear ratios (3.27-4.11), and with an optional Traction lock (Ford's name for a clutch type limited slip). 1st gens used a drum brake set-up, where 2nd gens came with disk brakes. The axle code on the door sticker will tell you which gear ratio was installed and whether you have an LS carrier or a conventional "open" carrier.

 

[badhabit78]

http://www.explorerforum.com/ntrprize/Axle.htm

 

[big_hoovie]

To be perfectly honest, I'm not sure what I meant by 'conventional' either...I was just quoting from the owners manual.

It appears(according to the listing at the link above) that I have an open carrier....what exactly is an 'open' carrier. Does it simply mean no traction lock?

 

[CodePoet]

yes, an open carrier means that no matter what power is distrubuted to the wheel wht the least resitstance. A limited slip transfers power equally to both wheels upto a certain point (say 18%) then it slips and becomes more like an open diff.

a locked diff disturbutest eh same amount of power to both wheels as long asther'e power

a spool ALWAYS transfers the same amount of power

 

[big_hoovie]

Ah...I understand now.