Rear end which one?

[J48chevy]

Went to look at a few today from local junk yards. Looking at the ford explorer rear ends and I did research all the topics on here about them. One question I have that I did not see is which one is better for overall daily driving? 3.42, 3.73, or 4.10? I am thinking 3.73 but what do the experts on here think?

[studda]

What are you wanting to do with it? Is it strictly for fun or is it going to see some regular driving? Also, what motor?

[J48chevy]

Yes, should have given more info. Looking at a daily cruiser, regular driving. I have a fresh stock 305 with 700R trans set up right now to go in this truck. Something good on highway driving also.

Originally Posted by studda

What are you wanting to do with it? Is it strictly for fun or is it going to see some regular driving? Also, what motor?

[_Ogre]

i run a 3.27 gear in truk w/ 350 & 700r4 and get 20 mpg @ 80 mph
works for me

[J48chevy]

So 3.42 or 3.73 would be good with the ford rear then for what I want to do? Not looking for something to run hard.

Originally Posted by _Ogre

i run a 3.27 gear in truk w/ 350 & 700r4 and get 20 mpg @ 80 mph
works for me

[whitedog76]

If you have an overdrive transmission, I'd stick with the 3.73 or 4.10, you'll be much more pleased, especially if you have a 6 cylinder engine. A 3.55 or 3.42 rearend would be good with an original 3 or 4 speed.

I've had 5 overdrive equipped vehicles with 3.42 or 3.55 gears. They all could've used a little more gearing when towing or hauling. Anyway, that's my $.02 worth.

[whammer33024]

my 97 camaro ss has a 396 LT1 that makes about 450rwhp, mated to a built 4l60e. i have 3:42 gears in the rear end. get about 20 mpg's and will still set you back when you get on it.

if i had to do it over again i'd go with 3:73 gears for a little extra kick in the pants

[J48chevy]

Thanks everyone. Looks like I will be going with the 3.73 rear as this is the one most parts places have. I did not want to say "junk yard" as we all know one mans junk is another mans treasure.

[iowaboynca]

Just in case, when you're looking at rear ends make sure it has a tag like this...the 3L73 is the limited slip w/ 3.73 gears. Good luck

[Mac the Yankee]

Gonna ask the same question here- is there a GM 5 lug rotor that will fit the Explorer rear (if I redrill the axles), or can I use GM 12 bolt axle shafts in the Explorer rear?

[J48chevy]

To my understanding yes. I just ordered a mustang 2 kit from southern rods and selected the GM 5x4.75 lug rotors but was also told these are drilled for the Ford 5x4.5 as well. Should get the kit in a few days and will let you know what I find out. At least that is what they told me via email.

[J48chevy]

Oooppsss. Mis-read that. Not sure for the rotors on the rears. Was thinking front end.

[whitedog76]

If you're wanting axle shafts with a GM bolt pattern, I wouldn't even bother re-drilling the Explorer shafts. Call a company like Mitchell Differential or Dutchman and have a set made. They may even have them in stock, considering it's a common swap.

http://www.dutchmanaxles.com/product...le-shafts.html

http://mitchelldifferential.com/custom-axles/

If you're going for discs on the rear, a S10 or Camero setup is what to look for. You may have to modify your axle flange though.

[Indian113]

Isn't the Exploder rear end offset?

[gag1025]

I used a 1976 Camaro differential which according to the code book and our count of the gears tells us that it is a 2.56 ratio which is fine with me. it gives my 350 transmission a higher 3rd gear. Almost like overdrive. The only thing I can never do with this differential is use a 700 transmission. I am more into fuel economy and do not plan on drag racing it.

[sqrlnts]

Here is a damn handy gear ratio calculator for various transmissions, axle ratios, and different tire sizes. It spits out various engine RPM's at 3 different speeds that you can change.

[J48chevy]

Just picked up the rear today. Here is what the tag says:

S613C. R
3L73. 88. 7402

From this I do know it is a 95-01 explorer rear end with 3.73 gears and limited slip. Do these numbers tell me anything else? Again, I was able to get this for FREE. Will have to put new rotors and brakes but everything else is great.

[57kansastruck]

Originally Posted by _Ogre

i run a 3.27 gear in truk w/ 350 & 700r4 and get 20 mpg @ 80 mph
works for me

You just made my day. I'm getting close to paint on my 57. Hope to finish around Memorial Day. I installed a 3.27 posi Camaro disc rear, with a 96 LT1/4L60E. I will be very happy with that kind of mileage! Jason

[Highsider]

Originally Posted by _Ogre

i run a 3.27 gear in truk w/ 350 & 700r4 and get 20 mpg @ 80 mph
works for me

You drive that at 80mph? I am not sure I would the confidence.
Meanwhile, mine likely has the 350/TH350/3.73 combo, so 65mph is tight enough.

[_Ogre]

truk likes speed, so does ogre

[crossfire84]

Originally Posted by _ogre

truk likes speed, so does ogre :d

yeah!!!!!

[sqrlnts]

The mans from Motown for god sake he likes to boogie!!!