I'm doing a 5-lug conversion to my '85 'Bird.
Until searching this site, I was positive the Ranger axles were my solution for the rear. Now, I'm not so sure.
Is anyone aware of a VIN or date cutoff as to when "mid 1985" changes took place? I'm assuming there aren't any visual clues.
Before I pulled the Ranger axles, I measured from the back of the mounting to the center bolt on the diff. This was approximately 29-1/4 on both the Ranger and my 'Bird. What with the various housing/axle changes, is this even a valid comparison?
...or am I stuck with "Pull it apart and hope I have the right stuff."
Thanks,
Keith
Chuck might know. ;)
Changeover was mid-November 1984 (in the 1985 model year).
Use two right rear axle shafts from the Ranger trucks.The left shafts won't work.Also,if you have small brakes,grab the Ranger stuff.Good luck.
Remeasure your housing from to ...
About 56" for the early and about 57 1/2" for the late. I say "about" as the dimensions are from outer face to face. You will probably be about 1/2" shorter overall if you measure from the inside of the s.
EDIT, I guess that's not quite right....the 56 and 57 1/2 are from tube end to tube end....
I have an early 7.5 housing sitting in my garage, I'll measure it for you when I get home in a bit.
[curly] oh...wiseguy.....nyuk nyuk[/curly]
:giggle:
OK, the distance from to (inside) is 53 3/4" for the early (narrow) housing.