9"or 8" ford rear?

How can i tell the difference between a 8 and 9 inch ford rear end?

 

well, you can take a deep socket and try to slide it on the very bottom nut of the 3rd member, if you cant get an unobstructed straight shot at it then its a 9". if the nuts on the bottom are easy to get to in a straight shot its an 8". I hope that helps. Brendan

 

Like this:

 

look at the back. 8's are smooth sometimes a dimple and 9's have a relief for the ring gear.

 

don't forget that there is another - i believe it is a 9.75" if memory serves me.

 

Not all nines have a relief some are totally smooth. However they are almost round whereas an eight is more oval. Stu

 

The older ones don't. The socket trick is your best bet.