How To Identify Ford Rear End

How to Identify a Ford Rear End: A Comprehensive Guide

Identifying a Ford rear end might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and approach, it's a manageable task. This guide will walk you through various methods to pinpoint the specific Ford rear end you're dealing with, covering everything from visual inspection to using identification numbers. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or a curious car enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the necessary skills.

Visual Inspection: The First Step

The most straightforward method involves a careful visual inspection. Several key features can help narrow down the possibilities:

1. Housing Shape and Size:

• Observe the overall shape: Ford rear ends have distinct housing shapes that vary across models and years. Some are narrower, while others are wider and more robust. Note the overall length as well.
• Check for casting numbers: The rear end housing itself might have casting numbers stamped into it. These numbers, though not always easily visible, can provide valuable clues. They often require cleaning the area for better visibility.
• Look for the differential cover: The cover's shape and size can offer additional clues, especially when combined with other observations.

2. Axle Tube Diameter and Length:

• Measure the axle tube diameter: Use a caliper to accurately measure the diameter of the axle tubes. This measurement is crucial in determining the rear end's capacity and intended application.
• Assess the axle tube length: The length of the axle tubes is another important indicator. This will help determine if it's designed for a specific vehicle size or model.

3. Brake Components:

• Drum brakes vs. disc brakes: The type of brakes used (drum or disc) is a key identifying feature. Early Ford rear ends commonly used drum brakes, while later models transitioned to disc brakes.
• Caliper style and mounting: If equipped with disc brakes, the caliper style and mounting brackets will provide more detailed clues.

Beyond Visual Inspection: More Definitive Methods

While visual inspection provides a good starting point, more definitive identification methods exist:

1. The VIN Plate (Vehicle Identification Number):

• Location: The VIN plate is typically located on the dashboard or driver's side doorjamb.
• Information: The VIN contains essential information about the vehicle, including the year, make, model, and sometimes the specific axle ratio. While it doesn't directly state the rear end type, it significantly narrows down the possibilities.

2. Differential Tag:

• Location: This tag, often made of metal, is usually attached to the differential housing.
• Information: The tag will usually contain crucial information such as the axle ratio, differential type (e.g., open, limited-slip, Posi-Traction), and sometimes a part number. This is your most reliable source for precise identification.

3. Using Online Resources:

• Ford Parts Websites: Several websites specialize in providing information on Ford parts. You can input the VIN or known specifications, and they might give you a better understanding of the rear end type fitted to the vehicle. Always cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy.
• Ford Enthusiast Forums: Online forums dedicated to Ford vehicles are invaluable resources. Experienced members can often help identify a rear end from detailed descriptions and photographs.

Understanding Ford Rear End Variations

Ford has used a wide variety of rear ends over the years, including but not limited to:

• 8-inch: A popular and widely used rear end design.
• 9-inch: Known for its strength and versatility, the 9-inch is favored by many enthusiasts and often used in performance builds.
• Ford 10-inch: A larger-capacity rear end.

Remember to consider the year, model, and engine size of the vehicle when attempting to identify the rear end. These factors significantly impact the type of rear end used.

By following these steps and using a combination of visual inspection and readily available resources, you'll be well-equipped to accurately identify any Ford rear end you encounter. Remember safety first! Always use proper safety equipment when working under a vehicle.