kmcmanis2003

Hey everyone I am new to this forum so hope this doesn't sound dumb but I have owned a 2003 mustang v6 for 4 years now and ready to begin swapping drive train. The end goal is a 5.4L DOHC navigator swap with a manual trans (T56-3650... Can't decide) and of course swapping to the 8.8 rear end. I'm working the car from back to front so I'm starting with the 8.8 swap. My question is I've heard that the ford explorers also have 8.8 rear ends? Would that work under my mustang? If so what modifications need to be done to provide best figment? If it would not work, what separates that 8.8 from that of a mustang 8.8? Thanks for your help and look forward to some feedback.

kirk35

The Explorer 8.8 and Mustang 8.8 are essentially the same rear. The big differences will be the overall width and mounting points. You'll be better off finding an 8.8 out of another Mustang.

petrock

I’m not sure if it will cleanly bolt up without any modification, but not all 8.8 diffs are created equal. One major difference is some have equal length right & left axle tubes/shafts and some don’t. It depends on the application the diff was designed for. Also, with that amount of work you plan to do with the car you might as well just buy a (new to you) car close to the specs you want. It would be much cheaper that way. Good luck...