JasonWW

iTrader: (2)

I have a question about the Ford 8.8 (with Trac-loc diff)

OK, there are 2 different axles with either 28 or 31 splines on them. Do the axle ends mate to the carrier or to the side spider gears?

For instance, my diff accepts 31 spline axles, but my axles have 28 splines. Can I just swap the side spider gears to convert it to fit? That would only cost me $60 and is cheaper than changing the axles. If I have to change the carrier it's going to cost way more due the the labor.

I assume you guys know what the Trac-loc is. You have a big S shaped spring pressing against the side gears. I hear it's pretty easy to replace the friction discs as you don't alter any of the pinion or carrier tolerances.

Let me know as I sure could use some help here.

Thanks

JasonWW

iTrader: (2)

Well, there are no tubes or bearings in my situation. That's why I only asked about the center section.

Internally these IRS diffs as almost identical to the solid axle units.




I know that LSD is pretty weak bias wise but this for a low use vehicle that see's no dragstrips. So it will do.

LS1-450

iTrader: (33)

[QUOTE=JasonWW;10001267]I have a question about the Ford 8.8 (with Trac-loc diff)

OK, there are 2 different axles with either 28 or 31 splines on them. Do the axle ends mate to the carrier or to the side spider gears?

For instance, my diff accepts 31 spline axles, but my axles have 28 splines. Can I just swap the side spider gears to convert it to fit? That would only cost me $60 and is cheaper than changing the axles. If I have to change the carrier it's going to cost way more due the the labor.

I assume you guys know what the Trac-loc is. You have a big S shaped spring pressing against the side gears. I hear it's pretty easy to replace the friction discs as you don't alter any of the pinion or carrier tolerances.

Let me know as I sure could use some help here.

Thanks[QUOTE]


You have to change the diff as well. My car uses an 8.8 w/ independent rear suspension also. When you swap the carrier, get a Detroit True-Trac. The True-Trac is night & day a better choice. Good-luck

JasonWW

iTrader: (2)

I was able to talk to some mechanics today and they say the side gears are interchangable. I just need the 28 spline gears used on the T-birds that had the optional Trac-loc rear.

So far I've only found the kit with includes all 4 center gears for $140. Picture and part number are below.

Another option would be to keep the diff as is and get some Cobra axles (which are shorter) and then just shorten the upper and lower control arms.

Scott@DrivelineSolutions

iTrader: (22)

Nothing between the 2 will inter change, the 28 spline case uses a .625" cross shaft and the 31 spline case uses a .750" cross shaft. The only thing that is the same is the clutch packs, even the S springs are different.

JasonWW

iTrader: (2)

Damn. Oh well, plan b.

This should give me a 62.5" hub to hub. I car just run a thicker 5 lug to 5 lug wheel adapter like 3rd gens use. It's all good.

Sheephead

iTrader: (13)

I just tried changing the spiders yesterday.Everything in the 31 spline will not fit in the 28 spline carrier.

Awake455

Lol, is this still a low-cost swap?

JasonWW

iTrader: (2)

Thanks for the extra confirmation.

This thread is more about the internal 8.8" parts, but....

It's still less than half the cost of a new 12 bolt or 9". Just more labor to install it.