Vanquish502 said:
Is there an easy way to find out if it will fit in my truck? Like a production number that tells me what vehicle it came out of? Or is the best way just to eyeball mounts and stuff and measure some things? As long as it goes in there without having to cut mounts off and make new ones and all that I'm fine with it. If I just have to cut brackets off and move them over or just make adapters and whatnot I'm up for it.
There is no easy way to find out anything on a 9" without tearing it down and measuring some stuff. There is no ID tag, there is no stamping really that will give you any info. If you are still looking at this rear as an option, you're gonna have to get dirty.
Dont worry, tearing down a 9" is super easy. You need to find out a few things-
What is the wheel mounting surface to wheel mounting surface measurement? If its too narrow it will not work. You need to put a tape on it.
What gears are in it? Go ahead and pull the shafts out and take the 3rd member out. Count the teeth on the pinion and the ring gear.
What lug pattern is it? As i said, if its in a car it will probably be 5 on 4.5 but you dont know. Throw a tape on it and see.
You will also probably need to move the spring perch pads (if it even has any)
You will need to have your driveshaft modified.
In the end, by trying to not spend any money you will probably spend $100-300 to get this thing in your truck. Go buy a locker for your 8.8 and be done with it.
You are correct,the ford 9" is a very strong rear end. I had one in my 81 Buick/w a done 350 SB.Forget driving in the rain,even with good tires. Talk about a snakey machine, it was fun but boy do you need an overdrive with that one.
