8.8 rear end in a 65 mustang

[jesseboy]

im thinking of puting a 8.8 out of like a 98 explorer what i thibm i have to do is just cut one side that is longer and move the spring perchis im takeing it to a shop to have it done then i will do the install i have late modle wheels on the car so im just wonering what other mods i have to do ?

 

[96 DOHC Cobra]

When you narrow it this way, the rear ends up about 1/2" shorter than a stock 65-66 Mustang rear. Using late model wheels might be a problem unless you intall spacers.

 

[Helmantel]

IIRC, when narrowing the long side of an Explorer axle (so that the pinion becomes centered), it will end up being around 59" wide (proper width for 67-68) or two inch two wide on a 65-66, which off course can be compensated with large offset late model wheels. I'm going from memory here, so I'm not sure about the dimensions.

 

[pyroman]

I believe you have to flip the axles too, no?

 

[jesseboy]

i have 03 mustang bullit wheels so they will not work with a explorer rear end? and whats the best way to go with the driveshaft?

 

[brh66cobra]

I have one that I narrowed the left side short enough to use a right side axle in the left side (centered up pinion). Ill measure it this evening and post length.

 

[brh66cobra]

Flange to flange with rotors installed 56 5/8

 

[pyroman]

I think the Explorer drive shaft can be used as well. It will have to be shortened however.

 

[96 DOHC Cobra]

whats the best way to go with the driveshaft?

I don't think anything will bolt right in, but there are a few options for mating the driveshaft to the rear.
1. You can use the stock Explorer flange (same as truck, van and full-size cars) but it has the largest diameter and allows the least tunnel clearance
2. You can swap to a smaller diameter flange like the one used on most Mustang 8.8s. It allows a little more clearance.
3. If you don't like the flanges, you can swap on a conventional rearend yoke from a early 80s truck.