Question about gear swaping

[strocket]

OK guys, yall remember a couple days ago how I was asking about that 4" spacer? Well I happened to find an 8.8 out of a 96 f150 for $150. So heres my questions. First, that is a full width rear end right? Second, since it is an 8.8 would I be able to take the diff. out of my 8.8 and transfer it to the the new one? I know I would have to replace the pinion crush sleve, but as far as preload, and backlash, would that pretty much be set for me already? or would I pretty much have to start over and do a fresh install? the only reason why im asking is because ive never done gears before.

 

[MountaineerGreen]

Gears are a detailed thing to set up. You'd need a new crush sleeve, possibly new gears. I've been told that used gears, no matter how well they are setup, make noise because the contact patterns can't and won't be the same.

Why do you want a full width axle?

 

[rickcdewitt]

you have to set it up again.you'll need a dial indicator,magnetic base, dial type inch pound torque wrench,ft lb torque wrench,press,pullers etc.if you haven't set up a diff or have help from someone who has done a few i would take it to a reputable axle shop not a dealer or reg. repair shop and let them do it for 400-500$ plus parts.done right the first time with a warranty(usually 30-60 days,plenty long enough to see if the install was done right.make sure you break it in also.drive for 30 min. stop for 1 hour,repeat 2-3 times this keeps heat from building up and cooking the gears.if they are used gears it will break in faster.

 

[strocket]

i need a full width cause cause my front axle is a full width. I have someone who does gears for a living, so thats not a prob. I was just wondering what all would be involved and how easy it would be.