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  #1  
Old 12-31-2017, 03:07 PM
Kobault Kobault is offline
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Default LS axle swap

My 2004 4x4 has an open 4.10 8.8 rear diff for some stupid reason (axle code 87). My local junkyard has a 220K 2003 Level II with an R7 (4.10, 8.8, LS). That should theoretically be plug and play pretty much, right? Are there any problems I might run into? Any tips?
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2004 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 Off-Road 5-speed {Thrush Welded muffler, 3" PA body lift, 4.10 open, RCI skid plate, 265/75/R16 KO2s} BUILD THREAD
Plans: lights, roof rack, diff locker, 06+ bumper, 06+ grille, 06+ mirrors.
2000 Ford Ranger XLT 4x2 5-speed {3.55 L/S, 31/10.50/R15 KOs, 2"lift shackles}
Kobault Films. Virginia Tech.
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  #2  
Old 01-01-2018, 03:10 PM
Kealel Kealel is offline
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Default Re: LS axle swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by Kobault View Post
My 2004 4x4 has an open 4.10 8.8 rear diff for some stupid reason (axle code 87). My local junkyard has a 220K 2003 Level II with an R7 (4.10, 8.8, LS). That should theoretically be plug and play pretty much, right? Are there any problems I might run into? Any tips?
When I did this to my truck, there were many setbacks, however most were due to a disc brake swap as well. Swapping in a new axle with high miles, you'll need to check and replace a few things.

U Bolts: when you remove the axle, keep the bolts as you will need new ones and the Level 2 axle is thicker than a regular Ranger axle so it isn't an easy part to find. I went to a local spring and suspension shop who made me U Bolts for next to nothing.

Bearings and seals: the axle bearings and seals at 220k miles are going to be a bit worn out, and it would be a smart idea to replace these before you have to. Just order parts for a "ranger with a 8.8 axle" as that is what these axles are under. The other 8.8 axles use 7.5 axle parts.

Diff fluid: these axles need a different fluid than regular clutch driven LS diffs on Rangers. I believe it is 70W 140 with LS additive.

While changing the fluid inspect the teeth and all moving parts to ensure nothing is in need of replacement.

Keep in mind this is a gear driven Torsen limited slip and not a clutch driven one so it will act differently (sends torque to the wheel with the most traction unless one is in the air, in which case that one will spin freely as if in an open diff)
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Originally Posted by Logan03CO View Post
I knew you were an alright guy!
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Originally Posted by ford4thot View Post
The only reason it's worn out junk is because you've gone 70k miles without changing the oil.
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Old 01-01-2018, 05:58 PM
Kobault Kobault is offline
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Default Re: LS axle swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by Kealel View Post
Bearings and seals: the axle bearings and seals at 220k miles are going to be a bit worn out, and it would be a smart idea to replace these before you have to. Just order parts for a "ranger with a 8.8 axle" as that is what these axles are under. The other 8.8 axles use 7.5 axle parts.
I assume that'd be the bearing with 2.531" O.D.; 1.620" I.D. instead of 2.250" O.D.; 1.400" I.D?
__________________
2004 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 Off-Road 5-speed {Thrush Welded muffler, 3" PA body lift, 4.10 open, RCI skid plate, 265/75/R16 KO2s} BUILD THREAD
Plans: lights, roof rack, diff locker, 06+ bumper, 06+ grille, 06+ mirrors.
2000 Ford Ranger XLT 4x2 5-speed {3.55 L/S, 31/10.50/R15 KOs, 2"lift shackles}
Kobault Films. Virginia Tech.
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  #4  
Old 01-01-2018, 06:33 PM
Kealel Kealel is offline
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Default Re: LS axle swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by Kobault View Post
I assume that'd be the bearing with 2.531" O.D.; 1.620" I.D. instead of 2.250" O.D.; 1.400" I.D?
I can't remember sizes, been a while, but it is the same as an explorer one (explorers only had one size)
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Baby Girl: 2006 White Ranger XL with many memories. R.I.P. 1/26/15
Quote:
Originally Posted by Logan03CO View Post
I knew you were an alright guy!
Quote:
Originally Posted by ford4thot View Post
The only reason it's worn out junk is because you've gone 70k miles without changing the oil.
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