Okay, need Info. New to this Mini Truck Thing

[lonewolfalpha]

Hey, I just purchased a 2006 Ranger FX4 Level 2 a few months ago and have noticed a few things that make me scratch my head. For starters, I am certain that it is the famous 8.8 inch rear end but I read some where that the 28 spline axle tubes taper at the drums and the 31 spline shafts do not. Mine taper, but there is also a tag on the tube that says "new model."
So, is mine a 31 or a 28?
Future mods will be 32 inch tires (very soon) and 33's and a 4 inch lift in the future years as well as a selectable locker so I need to know if the rear end is worth it or if I shouldn't even bother.
Thanks everyone.

 

[410Fortune]

FX4 should be a 31 spline rear 8.8, I am pretty sure all SOHC powered Edge and 4x4 got the 31 spline.

the 31 spline is a stout rear axle, I don't think you will have any trouble though either way, not with 33" tires...

 

[lonewolfalpha]

Well the plan was to keep the truck as low as possible to the ground and it is my daily, I mean I could chop the fenders and stuff 35's in there with a four inch lift but that opens a whole can of worms with gears and the IFS. Besides Minnie Me (so named by one of my Super Duty driving friends) has impressed the heck out of me off road in stock form. My only complaint might be no manual T-case shift is available anymore.

 

[RangerX]

I am pretty sure all SOHC powered Edge and 4x4 got the 31 spline.

I believe only the FX4s get the 31 spline, Jamie, and the Edge 4.0 gets the 28.

You'll be fine with the 28. Mine has the 28 spline, I wheel with 37s, and never broke anything.
And welcome to the site.

 

[lonewolfalpha]

Hmmm.....37's and how much lift?

Hey, while I'm at it do you guys know of any selectable lockers for the D35 pumpkin in the front? Just in case I decide that a posi isn't the way to go?

Thanks for the input!

 

[RangerX]

37s with 7" in the front and 4" in back. And some fender trimming.

 

[Rick]

If you're going to get a selectable locker you might as well upgrade the shafts at the same time (if you find it's only 28 spline). I picked up a set of stock Explorer shafts on e-bay for $50. Alloy shafts from Moser run $300 a pair.

Bill has definately has had good luck with his I can attest to that, but if you are replacing the carrier anyway you might as well go for the 31 spline.

 

[RockRanger]

Wheel bearings are different between the 28 and 31 spline 8.8 It was my understanding that a 31 spline shaft wont fit past a 28 spline wheel bearings. Cant just put 31 spline shafts in a 28 spline housing as far as I know.

 

[lonewolfalpha]

Sweet, why 3 inches more in the front? Heavy bumper and winch combo?

 

[lonewolfalpha]

Thanks for the in put, but if and when I do decide to swap in the locker and it is only 28 spline (probably not, but anyway) I could always swap an Explorer rear and have four wheel disks while I'm at it. I presume that other than the spring perches and maybe the shock mounts that this should be a direct bolt in.