I have a 9 3/8" Ford rear end. (It has the top horizontal rib turned down to meet the top vertical rib). It is in great shape and the gear ratio is good for my driving 3:50. However I like to be prepared, my question is, if it goes bad can I install a 9" third member in the housing or do I have to replace the entire rear end. I haven't seen much talk of this since it is an odd size. Thanks
should be no prob as ive done the opposite.took a 9" out and put a 9 3-8 in.had to grind the housing though
I heard it done your way but not the other. I have no experience working on rear ends, brakes yes, no internals. What do I look for in acquiring another third member?
The important thing to look for is axle spline count, you will need the third member to have same spline count as the one you are currently using, it will be either 28 or 31 spline. Ford also used different style driveshaft yokes, make sure you get the same length
I've owned a couple of those housings, stricktly speaking third member interchange no problem, and while your looking; keep your eyes open for a large (N) cast into the third member, these were generally only used in the higher hp cars and some trucks. If it also has a Detroit Locker; you've struck gold. Pretty slim chance of just stumbling onto one, but you never know. BTW....Pay close attention to Mark T's advise.
Thanks for all of the information, I have several areas to dig through as well a number of friends in the mechanic business, I can have them look out for items as well. Sadly I'm afraid a lot of rear ends went to the crusher down here when metal was 11.00 a hundred. Thanks Again
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