I had my local auto salvage looking for a 89-92 ranger rear end. They found one, then had issues with shipping delays with the other salvage yard. It took 3 weeks to get it delivered. It showed up finally, but it's a 2001. Has anyone used the wider 58 1/2 in rear end with out issues. Does the offset chunk create clearance issues with the drive shaft. I running what I think are stock rims with 205 tires. As it sits I have 2 in. clearance between the finder lip and the side wall of the tires. I think I'll only loose about 1/2 in. tire clearance either side.
They have been used in the past, the offset of the wheels you use are the key, later Ford wheels have a more positive offset that will put the wheel further into the wheel well, use this tech tip from the "Sticky" https://www.racingjunk.com/news/how-to-get-perfect-rear-wheel-and-tire-fitment/ The chunk offset should not be a problem if the car is not lowered too much. If you want a steel wheel try a mid 80s early 90's Crown Vic 15" wheel or a 15'' wheel from a Ford Ranger.
You may need this kit too. https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Weld...-Bolts-for-3-Inch-Axle-Tube-10-In,474921.html
Thanks JeffB2. I have looked a several of the wheel clearance post in the sticky's. I do need to do some measuring while waiting on the salvage yard.
If you’re installing the rear in your avatar it had a 56” wide rear. I thought the Ranger 8.8 was the same. My 8.8 has 11” F150 drum brakes and a 6”wheel with a 215-75-15 can be removed and installed but it’s real close. Be careful with your mounts as the tube has 2 different diameters or mine did.
This link will give you all the specs for the Ranger 8.8" rear ends and how to I.D. them https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/ford-ranger-rear-axles/
Probably harder to find but an 8" from a Maverick is the same WMS to WMS (56 1/2) as the '90-'92 8.8 from a Ranger. Have one in my '54 Ranch Wagon.
Thanks guys. The rear end I received was supposed to be a 1991 which would have been 56 1/2in. The one I received is 58 1/2 in. I found 2 late 60 early 70 rear end at the Moultrie swap meet saturday but both were 4 lug. Also found a explorer rear end but the ratio was too tall plus it would need to be narrowed. Thanks jimmy six, I did notice the axle housing size change.
Usually Explorer rears are from overdrive cars with 3.55-3.90 gears. The “tallest” is 2.74 which I have in my 56 Ford Victoria that came out of a Lincoln or 80’s Crown Vic. I don’t have an OD but do have a true 3 speed automatic and it’s perfect for my driving style.
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