Looking to upgrade my 7.5

[MetalDeerSolid]

Right now I have a 7.5 open with 3.45's, that gearing is okay for my 205/75r14 tires but I want bigger tires, and lower gears since the 2.3 is kinda weak lol

Ideally I want 4.10's so I can comfortably run 31's, but I'm having a hard time finding any with that gear ratio.

I've found an 8.8 from a 91 Explorer, 3.73 gears with Traction Loc and it's the stronger 31 spline for $375. This seems like a good deal but I don't know how to weld or even have access to welding equipment, so I'd have to get someone else to relocate the spring perches and shock mounts.

There's also a 7.5 from a 95 Ranger, 3.73 gears and Traction Loc for $400. This would be a lot easier for me, would I miss the extra strength of the 31 spline 8.8? Are these good prices?

If I wanted to cheap out, I also found a 8.8 from an 07 Ranger, 3.73's, open, no brakes for $100.

Should I keep waiting for something to come up with 4.10's, or are any of these a good deal? I would definitely prefer to have an LSD, there's been more than a few times that I've been stuck spinning 1 wheel.

 

[4x4junkie]

4.56:1 would be a much better ratio for a 2.3L pushing 31s.

If you're limited to junkyard-axle shopping, then definitely hold out for a 4.10 axle (it'll at least be adequate, where 3.73 is more likely to disappoint).

4.10 8.8s are somewhat common in '99-'09 Rangers, and would bolt in.

 

[adsm08]

1-ton Rockwells.

That is an upgrade on anything. Except 2-ton Rockwells.

 

[MetalDeerSolid]

That's just what I've found on craigslist so far, I'll probably go to some junkyards soon. But yeah, I shouldn't really bother with 3.73's. I'll definitely try and find at least 4.10's before buying anything. I definitely don't want a higher final drive ratio than what I have now. 4.56's would be great but I doubt I'm gonna find that on the cheap.

 

[MetalDeerSolid]

Well I waited and something came up! 8.8, 4.56's, rebuilt posi for $500!

http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/nvn/pts/3751323695.html

Those tires he's selling seem like a good deal too, but 33" MT's are a bit much for my stock suspension 2wd

 

[Captain Ledd]

Congrats on the deal! I'm still glowing about how well my 4.56 gears are working even on my 235/75R15 tires. When it comes to 4-bangers, do not fear the gear!