Fox T-Bird/Cougar Forums

Technical => Drivetrain Tech => Topic started by: dimarra on November 08, 2005, 12:23:29 PM

Title: Mid '85??
Post by: dimarra on November 08, 2005, 12:23:29 PM
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
Title: Mid '85??
Post by: JeremyB on November 08, 2005, 02:13:31 PM
Chuck might know. ;)
Title: Mid '85??
Post by: EricCoolCats on November 08, 2005, 02:48:16 PM
Changeover was mid-November 1984 (in the 1985 model year).
Title: Mid '85??
Post by: vinnietbird on November 08, 2005, 04:03:20 PM
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.
Title: Mid '85??
Post by: Chuck W on November 08, 2005, 04:08:53 PM
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.
Title: Mid '85??
Post by: Chuck W on November 08, 2005, 04:11:20 PM
Quote from: JeremyB
Chuck might know. ;)


[curly] oh...wiseguy.....nyuk nyuk[/curly]

:giggle:
Title: Mid '85??
Post by: Chuck W on November 08, 2005, 04:41:40 PM
OK, the distance from  to  (inside) is 53 3/4" for the early (narrow) housing.