All of the information in this video will also apply to the GM 12 bolt as well as other differentials of this type.
The #FairmontProject needed a new differential. The stock 7.5″ wasn’t going to cut it. So I got an 8.8″ out of an ’86 Mustang. The Mustang rear end had Traction-lock, but I’m not reusing that carrier. Since I’m upgrading to 31 spline axles, I needed to upgrade it anyway.
Perhaps at some point I’ll go back and do a rebuild of the stock traction-lock differential, but since I was upgrading anyway, it really wasn’t necessary.
***I show how to make a ‘set up’ bearing in this video. I learned the hard way that this may not always work out. If you are going to use a set up bearing, I recommend purchasing 2 new pinion head bearings and using one for set up. You can purchase set up bearings separately, but they are way more expensive than just getting a second bearing.
The best place for answers to your automotive questions: http://www.ericthecarguy.com
Camera: Brian Kast
Thanks for watching!
Discussion about this video: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/kunena/18-The-EricTheCarGuy-Video-Forum/64381-ford-8-8-differential-complete-tear-down
Useful info
Ford 8.8 PDF: https://performanceparts.ford.com/download/instructionsheets/FordInstShtM-4209-8.pdf
A great book on Differentials: http://www.amazon.com/Ford-Differentials-How-Rebuild-Inch/dp/161325038X
Tools
Brake Tools: https://www.jbtoolsales.com/atd-tools-5147-drum-brake-tool-set-7-pc#oid=1002_1
Slide Hammer: https://www.jbtoolsales.com/sunex-3911-professional-slide-hammer-puller-set#oid=1002_1
Axle Bearing Attachment: https://www.jbtoolsales.com/astro-pneumatic-78820-rear-axle-bearing-service-set#oid=1002_1
Bearing Splitter: https://www.jbtoolsales.com/cta-tools-8065-large-bearing-splitter#oid=1002_1
20 ton press: https://www.jbtoolsales.com/sunex-tools-5720-manual-shop-press-20-ton#oid=1002_1
Pinion Flange Holder: http://www.summitracing.com/parts/aaf-all68372?seid=srese1&gclid=CIffkOfUgs0CFYU2aQodViUGqg
Zep Penetrating Oil: http://www.zepautomotive.com/product/Super-Rust-Breaker
Related Videos
Fairmont Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L22GsHQi7tU&list=PLSzhQ6St-ov2nxWVKCeU14Vt7JJ_QSZvs&spfreload=5
Rear Brake Replacement (Drum): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCpCkun2qxA
Hoarding Parts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdKH2NzzkNs
**Answers to your automotive questions found here: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq
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Stay Dirty
ETCG
Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information.  EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video.  Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.
Sir you are so detailed with your work along with good energy, your videos are very inspiring.
Keep up the great videos Eric.
Give the parts to meh
Eric you got to get them nose hairs I can hear you breathing in every video! 😂 Lol sorry!
learning Diffs. what does 8 inch mean. is that the size of the crown gear?. cant find a definite meaning anywhere or the center "pumpkin" diameter
Old Video now. But never the less. I had a 1978 Fairmont 4dr. I put a 429 in it. The 429 was actually skinnier than the 4 banger with the accessories on it. The big motor just slipped right in there with the transmission.
I just took my 8.8 apart and nowhere did I find any shims
Thank you for this! I really needed this video and you are such a help. I am pretty sure I have the same differential in my 2001 Ford Ranger XLT 4×4 Off Road. Can you tell me the best way to know what my differential is? If it's really an 8.8? I stripped the entire truck down to the frame, sold the transmission and engine, now doing a custom rear triangulated 4 link with trailing arms and coilovers. The front is getting the stock dana 30/35 (How do I know?) overhauled and the 5" lift kit, with custom brackets for coilovers in the front as well. I threw the torsion bars and A-arms in the garbage lol.
Thank you Eric. Your teaching is very clear.and I do diy.
Is there much difference from this year 8.8 diff to a newer model 8.8? That is as far as internals goes…
28 spline is the same as the ford 8".
Do not use old worn-out bearings to setup your ring and pinion because when you install new bearings the clearances or going to be off this guy is a total backyard mechanic HACK!
Total hack does not have a seal remover and yeah he's going to destroy the whole housing using ladie slipper and ball-peen Hammers and steel chisel's to beat the flanges & Gall up all of the housing at all of the most crucial spots! Do not use this guy for information he has no clue what the hell he is doing. You're better off going to Home Depot buying a 5-pound mall and beat the ring and pinion back in ðŸÂ»
Is it possible to remove the s spring and turn this rear end into a open diff?
Changing my 2000 ford ranger 4×4 to an FX4. 31 spline from a 28 spline with spartan lockers. Eric you are definitely an excellent teacher thank you.
Just watched this for the third time, getting ready for my tear down on my ‘86 Mustang 5.0. Wish me luck!
You and your metric tools! Lol "8.8 uses 1/2" & 9/16" I use metric on everything too. Need to get rid of standard!
Hi there. Im dealing with 2000 fd expedition 8.8 diameter 43 teeth..but autoparts guys only have 41 on their systems thanks
What’s that tool your using on the drum brake springs?
Parabéns pelo vÃÂÂdeo, sou do Brasil adquiri um diferencial desses para adaptar em um chevy Opala e não sabia como poderia desmonta-lo.
Thank you.
Would an 8.8 from an 05 mustang GT fit for a 05 mustang v6 it also has and 8.8 and they both are 31 spline
Thanks , for the great video schooling.
I am a Chevy Man however, when pulling good parts that could be the save all part yeah I take care of them and label them if I don't use them after a good while they end up going to a swap meet MAKE DOES NOT MATTER.
Perfect set of vids for me to rebuild my ford explorer 8.8.
Question please.
What is the cause of excessive axle end play. One side is a solid 3/16 inch the other is at least 5/16.
Thanks in advance.
I like the way you work on that.
It’s funny I came across this video I had a same color Mercury Zefer that was a 302 . Two days after installing a 5speed and a mustang rear some Ass ran a light and stuffed it at the passengers door post.