DANA 35 IFS differences?

[Hacra]

Hey all and thanks for replies in advance.

I am thinking of hoarding few front axles for my explorer which i might aquire very cost effectively, but i stumbled upon ranger station website which has quite few dana 35s listed, this made me think, can i use axle from 1996 or 1998? in my 1997, what are the major differences or are there any?

Edit: Did 4.0 have dana 28 for example? or is it all the same with 4.0 and 5.0 for front and rear axles.

 

[410Fortune]

You want to use a 96-97 Ranger axle in your Explorer? not compatible
Ranger was TTB (beam suspension) until 97
Ranger then went the the IFS in 98 but they had vacuum hubs from 98-99

So you CAN use the front CV axles from a 2000-11 Ranger as long as its 4wd and V6 yes, they use the same front differential and front suspension

 

[Hacra]

Ah, i was just trying to search for information on dana 35s, i'll try to get the axle from other explorer(s).

 

[410Fortune]

V6 Rangers from 86-97 do use a dana 35, but it is a different carrier to fit the TTB beams, the TTB beams use axleshafts with U joints, no CV axles until 98

The early Dana 35 is different then the 98+ D35 center section. they are both reverse rotation D35 ring and pinions but that is about where the similarities end.

What info on the D35's are you looking for?

Don't forget Mercury Mountaineers use the same suspension as the explorer (same truck) and the Mazda B4000 pickup is the same as the Ranger 4.0

 

[Hacra]

Generally i am trying to source a replacement differential which is equal (fits right), in case i end up grenading my current one, just to have one spare would bring feeling of some security, plus i could keep driving my car while i possibly install lunchbox locker and reinforced pumpkin cover to new one (not sure if needed for off road since the diff is kinda protected where it is, afaik).

I tried to change oil to front diff yesterday and couldn't figure out any proper way of getting the differential cover off while the differential is in place, so i left it later until i can figure out proper way, i want to clean the diff properly from inside so i get all the possible metal goo, etc out.

Also having one extra would make servicing the diff easier as you could always keep one in good condition, waiting to be installed. Afaik dropping the front diff isn't too huge of a task.