8.8 explorer Leaf spring and axle swap

cbr600rx7 · Feb 19, 2017

Has any one on the forum completed the full swap using the explorer 8.8 rear end along with it's under axle leaf spring set up on there ranger.

From what I understand from online research is this will drop the rear end about about 4 inches. But I am curious to know how this set up rides and handles with the stiffer explorer springs in a under axle configuration.

alwaysFlOoReD · Feb 19, 2017

I haven't done it, but lots have. Check the lowering forum and the tech articles at the top of every page.

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cbr600rx7 · Feb 19, 2017

I have done some digging on it and the physical swap is well established. It's the after effects that are not very clear. Especially as far as how it rides.

chvlfrk · Feb 19, 2017

>>>>

cbr600rx7 said:
I have done some digging on it and the physical swap is well established. It's the after effects that are not very clear. Especially as far as how it rides.

========================
I've done it with Ranger springs and more on my Green 94, ride didn't change any & yes it gets you around 4" of drop.

85_Ranger4x4 · Feb 19, 2017

I converted mine to spring over axle but the Explorer springs made the ride much stiffer.

I actually replaced the Explorer springs with a pair of low mile 2009 scab Ranger springs last fall and it now rides much nicer.

JoshT · Feb 20, 2017

Using the Explorer axle and springs in the spring under configuration gets you closer to a two inch drop, maybe three inch considering the added diameter of the axle tube.

The Explorer's leaf is about two inches taller than the Ranger leaf pack. It's a fairly common swap to replace a Rangers leaf pack and lift blocks with an Explorer leaf pack.

For a 4" drop you'd be better off using the Ranger leaf pack with the Explorer axle in leaf under configuration and add a lift shackle to raise it back up a little off necessary.

Of course those numbers could be plus or minus an inch depending on how much the leaf pack in has sagged.

FWIW I have an '86 in my yard right now that has the Explorer axle and leafs in spring under configuration. It is weight on wheels, but far from complete. Also have a 99 4wd that has expert leafs substituted for the stock leafs and lift blocks.

proz07 · Feb 20, 2017

I currently am running a shortened 98 explorer 8.8 w/ springs on my 88 ranger. I cant comment on the stiffness compared to stock as Mine was shot so i went straight into the swap. It is rougher I'm sure but i also upgraded the shocks and did lowering springs up front so that adds to the harshness. Overall i cant imagine you noticing a "rough" rear end if you use stock front springs honestly. I think a majority of my stiffness came from running 17" rims on 50 profile tires. I wish i didnt lose my starting fender height measurements but it currently sits 27 1/4" at the fenders sitting on 245/50/17R. Id estimate about 3" of drop but my old 88 7.5 was wore the F out so if yours was good maybe 4".

Thats about all i can provide on that.

z

cbr600rx7 · Jun 6, 2017

So I found a FX4 ranger rear out of a 2001 with 4.10 gears LSD and 10 inch drum brakes. Since this is a ranger rear end I should just be able to basicly bolt it and and go correct?

8.8 explorer Leaf spring and axle swap

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