Mid '85??

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Mid '85??

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

Mid '85??

Reply #1 – November 08, 2005, 02:13:31 PM

Chuck might know.

Mid '85??

Reply #2 – November 08, 2005, 02:48:16 PM

Changeover was mid-November 1984 (in the 1985 model year).

Mid '85??

Reply #3 – 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.

Mid '85??

Reply #4 – 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.

Mid '85??

Reply #5 – November 08, 2005, 04:11:20 PM

Quote from: JeremyB

Chuck might know.

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

Mid '85??

Reply #6 – November 08, 2005, 04:41:40 PM

OK, the distance from to (inside) is 53 3/4" for the early (narrow) housing.