Mista_Breeze

Okay, I have a few questions regarding the possible rear end swaps in these trucks. I have a 1996 4.9 5spd, 8.8 with 2.73:1. I would like to swap out to get a lower gearing, preferably 3.73, 3.55 may be adequate. What other vehicles could I swap an axle from? I know a lot of vehicles use the 8.8, many of them with 3.73 gearing. But I know some are narrower or wider than others. Is there another vehicle that the axle is the same length, or a hair wider even? And are there any of said vehicles that would have a rear disc set-up? I'm tired of drum brakes. Also: are the... Tubes? Of the axles interchangeable? (The tube that spans from the diff to the wheels.)

sdmartin65

Not sure about disk brakes but I doubt it. Look on Oreilly at an axle then look at compatibility. Bronco, F150 and E150, should give a good selection at the wreckers.

jkenprice1

I just googled "used diff assembly for 1996 f150". I found one with a 3.55 ratio for $786 in south Carolina. Have you priced having yours rebuilt?

Crownman

Bronco Graveyard has a conversion kit for $295
http://shop.broncograveyard.com/88-R...uctinfo/32375/

If you don't currently have an LS diff. Then I'd get one when you change the gears.
Here's a small place that has great customer service and good prices

Latemodel Restoration

Ford Racing 8.8 LS Diff $228.99
https://lmr.com/item/M4204F318C/Must...r-Clutch-Disks

Gears
3.55 or 3.73 $144.98
https://lmr.com/item/M420988355/Must...s-M-4209-88355
https://lmr.com/item/M420988373/Must...s-M-4209-88373

frank5079

I had the same 300 six, 5 speed, 2.73 rear combination in my '95; the rear end was starting to make noises and was leaking gear oil. I found a 3.55 rear which I bought off a guy with a wrecked F-150 that I found on Craig's List. He wanted $150 for it but was able to talk him down to $100 even. Sadly, I found another deal on Craig's List where another guy had a sliding glass back window which I bought for $50 and he had the same 3.55 rear but with limited slip for S150....