what's the difference between D4 and L73 axle?

[bplein]

I'm looking for a used axle to replace the 8.8 on my 1997 XLT. What's the difference between the D4 code adn the L73 code? My truck came with the D4 code.

I have the tow package, does that mean the D4 is the stronger? I've seen V8's with the L73, is that one stronger? Does everything else bolt up the same?

Educate me! Google hasn't been that helpful....

 

[spindlecone]

I'm looking for a used axle to replace the 8.8 on my 1997 XLT. What's the difference between the D4 code adn the L73 code? My truck came with the D4 code.

I have the tow package, does that mean the D4 is the stronger? I've seen V8's with the L73, is that one stronger? Does everything else bolt up the same?

Educate me! Google hasn't been that helpful....

D4 and L73 are both 3.73 LS diffs, both I believe are the same

 

[IAmTodd]

yea. D4 is listed on the door panel. 3L73 is on the tag on the diffy.

 

[bplein]

Then why do we have 2 different items listed on lists like this?

http://www.explorerforum.com/ntrprize/Axle.htm

Just curious.

 

[bplein]

I've heard that the V8 axles have a traction bar mount on them, while the V6 does not. Since I'm a V6, I assume I can use either, I'll just have a little bit more metal welded to the axle tubes if I get one with the V8 traction bar mounts, right?

 

[IAmTodd]

Personally never seen the L37. Both my v6 and my current v8 Explorer both have/had D4 on the door.

The traction bar mounts will not get in your way. May even want to get the stuff to put them on

 

[bplein]

Thanks!