Begster said:
Also, starting with a locker in the rear is more affective I believe. Thats how all the guys I know do it, lock the rear first, and then the front.
This really depends on what kind of wheeling you do. I locked my front first, and in most cases it out performed those with just a rear. The only cases where this really didn't hold true was on steep climbs. IMO If you like rocks and rough trails, do the front first, it's easier for the front to be able to climb an obstacle, than to be pushed up it. If you like mud, or really muddy trails with a lot of off camber, do the rear first.
STATCOURIER said:
Yeah , I think I will do the 8.25 can get one for $90 in good shape , Only reason I was thinking about ford , my buddy is a for freak and he would be glad to get in on that project.It would make him feel good lol .So what kinda locker is good , aussie ? lockright , trutrac?
$90 is a good price, don't forget to try to get the drive shaft from it. I swapped an 8.25 in mine without it, but I already had 4.5" of lift, and actually needed the longer shaft (hang onto your old one in case you need it when you lift).
I too believe your thinking about the 8.8, not the 9". A 9" isn't an easy swap, unless you buy custom. Unless it's from a 1st gen Bronco, it will be too wide. Also the lug pattern is different. It is an easy install, but installing the front axle to match is the PITA!
However an explorer 8.8 is one of the most commonly swapped axles because the width is about right, and the lug pattern is the same. Not to mention the strength, 31 spline (same shafts as 9"). You also get the added benefit of disc brakes. If you can find one for the right price, I'd go this route simply because there is a TON of aftermarket for them! Plus you can find upgrades like gears, shafts, lockers, etc... a good bit cheaper. The initial cost may be more, but it may save you money in the long run, that just depends on your plans.
However...At $90, as long as the gears are the same, you can't go wrong putting the 8.25 in for now, and swapping later if need be (that's exactly what I did, now it's getting swapped for a D44 so I can gear it lower).
As far as lockers, your limited with the 8.25 to either a Powertrax No-Slip, a Detroit, or an ARB. There is supposed to be an Aussie made, but it's taking them forever to get it done. A trutrac isn't a locker, but it is a real nice limited slip. In front you have many more options, I ran an aussie in my 30 and loved it! I will be doing Aussies F&R with the new build. Selectables are nice, and can be worth it if you have the coin, but IMO I wouldn't spend that much on either of those axles unless I knew for sure I wouldn't be going bigger. On the other hand, the re-sale value of lockers is good, so you can make most of it back by selling it.