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Topic: Rear End Identification (Read 1667 times) previous topic - next topic

Rear End Identification

I have a 1984 Ford Thuderbird, with a 351 W HO in it. It originally had a 302 in it. What rear end/axle ratio, would it probably have? I NEED some lower gears in it bad, and instead of buying some, if it is in fact a 7.5, where would i find a good 8.8 with low gears  and maybe even a traction lock at (what car or truck). Also, if i find a traction lock for it now, if it does have a 7.5 in it, will the rear end be able to handle the engine ok? Also, if u have any parts i may be interested in, u can pm me too, thanks, Robert.

Re: Rear End Identification

Reply #1 –
Your car would have a 7.5" rear, most likely with 2.73 gears and an open diff. Your best bet for a swap would be a rear from an 87-88 Turbo Coupe Thunderbird. They have the 8.8, traction lock, and 3,73 gears (if you get it from an automatic car, 3.55 if you get it from a 5-speed). They also have rear discs if you feel so inclined to do that upgrade. If you don't, you can use your backing plates, drums, shoes, etc from the 7.5

Your 7.5 could probably handle the 351 as long as you don't do a whole lot to increase traction and the engine is relatively mild. The wheels spinning will limit the amount of torque the rear is subjected to. If you add slicks or really juice up the 351 you'll probably spit that poor li'l 7.5 right out.
2015 Mustang GT Premium - 5.0, 6-speed, Guard Green - too much awesome for one car

1988 5.0 Thunderbird :birdsmily: SOLD SEPT 11 2010: TC front clip/hood ♣ Body & paint completed Oct 2007 ♣ 3.55 TC rear end and front brakes ♣ TC interior ♣ CHE rear control arms (adjustable lowers) ♣ 2001 Bullitt springs ♣ Energy suspension poly busings ♣ Kenne Brown subframe connectors ♣ CWE engine mounts ♣ Thundercat sequential turn signals ♣ Explorer overhead console (temp/compass display) ♣ 2.25" off-road dual exhaust ♣ T-5 transmission swap completed Jan 2009 ♣

Re: Rear End Identification

Reply #2 –
In order to swap to the rear disk brakes, what is all involved, i dont need my ebrake, it doesnt even work now, lol.

Re: Rear End Identification

Reply #3 –
for disc brakes, just use the whole 8.8 out of a TC...direct bolt in, unless the bleeder screws are froze up, then it's a bit of a pain in the ass...
'98 Explorer 5.0
'20 Malibu (I know, Chevy, but, 35MPG. Let's go brandon, eh)

Re: Rear End Identification

Reply #4 –
what about the Areo stars? I have heard that they come with a 7.5" with 4.11 gears. Also what does the 24 and 25 axel code mean?(Got bored and the junk yard so yeah)
Quote from: jcassity
I honestly dont think you could exceed the cost of a new car buy installing new *stock* parts everywhere in your coug our tbird. Its just plain impossible. You could revamp the entire drivetrain/engine/suspenstion and still come out ahead.
Hooligans! 
1988 Crown Vic wagon. 120K California car. Wifes grocery getter. (junked)
1987 Ford Thunderbird LX. 5.0. s.o., sn-95 t-5 and an f-150 clutch. Driven daily and going strong.
1986 cougar.
lilsammywasapunkrocker@yahoo.com
 

Re: Rear End Identification

Reply #5 –
where are you located? i got a turbocoupe rear that im not going to use so if you close ill sell it to ya. and speaking from experiance, the tc rear swap is easy, takes a few hrs.

Quote from: pedal2themedal
I have a 1984 Ford Thuderbird, with a 351 W HO in it. It originally had a 302 in it. What rear end/axle ratio, would it probably have? I NEED some lower gears in it bad, and instead of buying some, if it is in fact a 7.5, where would i find a good 8.8 with low gears  and maybe even a traction lock at (what car or truck). Also, if i find a traction lock for it now, if it does have a 7.5 in it, will the rear end be able to handle the engine ok? Also, if u have any parts i may be interested in, u can pm me too, thanks, Robert.