Ford Differentials

The Ford 8.8- and 9-inch rear differentials are two of the most popular and best performing differentials on the market. While the 8.8-inch differential is commonly used in late-model Mustangs, the 9-inch is the most popular and arguably the most dominant high-performance differential for muscle cars, hot rods, custom vehicles and race cars. Built from 1957-1986, the 9-inch Ford differential is used in a huge range of high-performance Ford and non-Ford vehicles because of its rugged construction, easy-to-setup design, and large aftermarket support. The 9-inch differential effectively transmits power to the ground for many classic Fords and hot rods of all types, but is the choice of many GM muscle car owners and racers as well. These differentials have been extensively used and proven their mettle in racing and high-performance applications. The Ford 8.8- and 9-inch need to be rebuilt after extensive use and need a variety of different ratios for top performance and special applications. This Workbench book provides detailed step-by-step photos and information for rebuilding the differentials with the best equipment and installing the gear sets and converting to posi-traction for a variety of applications. It shows how to disassemble the rear end, identify worn ring and pinion gears and other damage or wear, and proceeds to show step-by-step rebuilding of the differential. It also explains how to select the right differential hardware, bearings, seals, and other parts, as well as how to set ring and pinion backlash, so the rear end operates at peak efficiency. Aftermarket 9-inch performance differentials from manufacturers, such as Currie, Moser and Strange, will be reviewed and the reader will learn how to rebuild and set-up these high-performance aftermarket differentials. In addition, the book provides a comprehensive 9-inch identification chart to ensure readers properly identify the model and specifics of the differential.