Just took the maiden voyage on my 8.8 swap. Thought I would share here because not many have used the Ranger option. I chose this option as I did not want to attempt to cut down an Explorer wheel, and the Ranger is the exact width to run the Mustang Bullitt wheels that I've been running.
It cost more than most 8.8 conversions because the combination I wanted wasn't a factory option, 3.31 with limited slip.
The junkyard rear had damaged backing plates and no drum hardware, so I converted to Mustang discs using instructions from
The Ranger Station
I'm running a 904 and I found a Spicer 1330 yoke and had a custom driveshaft made at 53". No need for conversion u-joints.
I used speedway shock plates, but could have used 8.75 shock plates if I had had them. The Ranger axle is an oddball 2.75 axle tube and I had to slot the holes as the shock plate is meant for a 3" tube.
I used a Dr Diff perch kit and new springs. Right now the 17x8 with 245/45r17 are about 1" from the spring, and 1.25-1.5 from the quarter lip. I have just ordered 18x9 for the rear and plan to run 275/40r18. They should JUST clear. In anything they'll just need the fender lip folded over or trimmed.
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