rear differential compatability

[bgsc74]

My 2002 XLT 4.0 4WD has the dreaded diff whine which is now steadily getting worse. I'm thinking the easiest remedy would be to replace the rear-end with a used one. I've already changed the fluid with no effect.

Since the whine problem seems to have been fixed after 2005, is the 2006+ rear a direct swap? Or that from the 2005+ Mustang? My axle code is 45, which is a 3.55 open diff.

Thanks!

 

[Number Twelve]

I don't have the cross reference book, but I can tell you that looking on the door sticker for, "code 45" is the easiest way to search the junque yard. (Been there, whined that.)

 

[extra-medium]

Rock auto shows the same part numbers for the 31 spline 8.8" Eaton posi rear differential between the 2002 and a 2006. They also show the same part numbers for the front as well with the Dana 30, 27 spline.