Ford Ranger rear end fit '71 Dart?
Finished up my swap, and just thought I’d let ya know how it went. I did not narrow the rear, and while the driveshaft did move slightly from its original position, there’s still plenty of clearance. Furthermore, the rubber brake hose bolted right in and the emergency brake cables from the old 7 1/4 plugged right into the 8.8 drums. I plan on using the speedo gear to run an electronic dash unit, as mine wasn’t working, and would no longer be accurate with the new gear anyway.
A word of warning; my rear narrowed towards the drums, and the spring perches I bought to fit 3” tubes were too big. 7 1/4 perches would probably fit better.
My wheels ended up fitting perfectly with the springs moved in half an inch. If i had to do it again I’d probably just go with an uncut explorer rear, as higher offset modern wheels are way easier to find.
Right about ride height:
Finished up my swap, and just thought I’d let ya know how it went. I did not narrow the rear, and while the driveshaft did move slightly from its original position, there’s still plenty of clearance. Furthermore, the rubber brake hose bolted right in and the emergency brake cables from the old 7 1/4 plugged right into the 8.8 drums. I plan on using the speedo gear to run an electronic dash unit, as mine wasn’t working, and would no longer be accurate with the new gear anyway.
A word of warning; my rear narrowed towards the drums, and the spring perches I bought to fit 3” tubes were too big. 7 1/4 perches would probably fit better.
My wheels ended up fitting perfectly with the springs moved in half an inch. If i had to do it again I’d probably just go with an uncut explorer rear, as higher offset modern wheels are way easier to find.
Right about ride height:
