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Topic: Newby (Read 1275 times) previous topic - next topic

Newby

Ok, so I am brand new to the thunderbird (and forum) world. While I know there are probably exsisting answers to all of my questions, until I get more familiar with how to search on here I would like to ask a few things, but before I do, let me start with the fact that I am not yet a tbird owner. I am in the process of finding one. There's an 88 that I'm hoping to pick up.
Anyway,
1) to upgrade the gears, is it typically recommended to swap the rear axle with a turbo coupe 8.8 or just get a set for the 7.5? I would like to put 3.73s in my future car.

2) by putting different gears(and possibly the entire rear axle) should I do a 5 lug conversion?

I'm sure to have more questions in the future and hope to learn more about tbirds of this era, and how to navigate this forum. Thanks!
(If these questions are in the wrong category, I apologize.)

Newby

Reply #1 –
The 7.5" is an OK rear end, especially at stock power levels, but with a TC upgrade you also get rear disc brakes, so that'd be a better way to go. If you want to go with a 5-lug swap get the rear end from a 94-04 V8 Mustang, as that will have your rear discs and 5 lugs.

If you swap to 5-lugs, remember that you'll need to convert the fronts too. If you're going that far you may as well get the front spindles & brakes from the same Mustang you source the rear axle from. That will give you bigger & better brakes and open up a whole new world of wheel availability.
2015 Mustang GT Premium - 5.0, 6-speed, Guard Green - too much awesome for one car

1988 5.0 Thunderbird :birdsmily: SOLD SEPT 11 2010: TC front clip/hood ♣ Body & paint completed Oct 2007 ♣ 3.55 TC rear end and front brakes ♣ TC interior ♣ CHE rear control arms (adjustable lowers) ♣ 2001 Bullitt springs ♣ Energy suspension poly busings ♣ Kenne Brown subframe connectors ♣ CWE engine mounts ♣ Thundercat sequential turn signals ♣ Explorer overhead console (temp/compass display) ♣ 2.25" off-road dual exhaust ♣ T-5 transmission swap completed Jan 2009 ♣

Newby

Reply #2 –
Thanks for the info. I didn't know the TC rear axles came with disc brakes, I like the idea of 4 wheel discs. I assume I would have to swap the brake master cylinder with one from a TC also?  If I was to go with a swap with a 94-04 V8 Mustang will that axle bolt right up?