Ford Differentials

The Ford 8.8- and 9-inch rear differentials are two of the most popular and best-performing differentials on the market. While the 8.8-inch differential is commonly used in late-model Mustangs, the 9-inch is the more popular and arguably the most dominant high-performance differential for muscle cars, hot rods, custom vehicles, and race cars. Built from 1957 to 1986, the 9-inch Ford differential is used in a huge range of high-performance Ford and non-Ford vehicles because of its rugged construction, easy-to-set-up design, and large aftermarket support. The 9-inch differential effectively transmits power to the ground for many classic Fords and hot rods of all types, but it is the choice of many GM muscle car owners and racers as well. These differentials have been used extensively and proven their mettle in racing and high-performance applications.

The Ford 8.8- and 9-inch must be rebuilt after extensive use and need a variety of different ratios for top performance and special applications. This Workbench book provides detailed step-by-step photos and information for rebuilding the differentials with the best equipment, installing the gear sets, and converting to Posi-Traction for a variety of applications. It describes how to disassemble the rear end, identify worn ring and pinion gears, other damage or wear, and shows step-by-step rebuilding of the differential. It also explains how to select the right differential hardware, bearings, seals, and other parts, as well as how to set ring and pinion backlash so that the rear end operates at peak efficiency.

Aftermarket 9-inch performance differentials from manufacturers including Currie, Moser and Strange are reviewed and you learn how to rebuild and set up these high-performance aftermarket differentials. In addition, this book provides a comprehensive identification chart to ensure readers properly identify the model and specifics of the 9-inch differential. Chapters include axle identification, inspection, and purchasing axles for rebuilding; differential tear down; ring and pinion gear removal; inspection and reassembly; drive axle choices; and more.

“"Within the 144 pages of this softcover book is everything you need to know about rebuilding Ford's 8.8 and 9-inch differentials. In fact, the information is so well presented with understandable, concise writing backed by hundreds of clear, detailed photographs, that you'll be able to rebuild most other differentials too, as they are all basically the same by design. Here the author guides you through each and every step of the rebuilding process, details the tools needed, explains how and why each part works, and shows you how to set the pinion angle and other critical dimensions."”

"... an essential reference on the subject." -tkc magazine, January/February 2014-- "tkc magazine" (12/19/2013 12:00:00 AM)
-Hemmings Classic Car, September 2013-- "Hemmings Classic Car" (7/12/2013 12:00:00 AM)
"It can't make you an expert, it can't even stop you getting things wrong, but it can definitely stop you from falling into the elephant traps that await the novice, and help you decide whether you should attempt the job yourself or just call the speed shop.... definitely recommended." -American Car Magazine, November 2013-- "American Car Magazine" (10/14/2013 12:00:00 AM)

Joe Palazzolo is currently the Global Engineering Director-EV System Solutions at Dana Incorporated. His resume includes employment at Ford, Magna Powertrain (formerly New Venture Gear), Warn Industries, GKN Driveline and GETRAG Corporation. He has also supported numerous race teams as well as building and maintaining his own motorsports and powersports vehicles. Joe is an ASE Certified Master Technician, holds a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering, and a Masters Degree specializing in Automotive Engineering. He has been a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for more than 18 years and is active in developing SAE standards. He has been teaching Drivetrain seminars for more than 10 years and a recipient of the Forest R. McFarland Award for distinction in professional development and education. He has received numerous patents for his innovative work and creativity in advancing vehicle mobility systems.

The Ford 8.8- and 9-inch rear differentials are two of the most popular and best high-performance differentials on the market. Built by Ford from 1957 to 1986, the Ford 9-inch differential has dominated the muscle car, hot rod, and V-8 competition car market because it is one of the strongest, most durable, and most versatile rear differentials with full OEM and aftermarket support. In fact, the 9-inch axle has been installed in many Fords, such as the Mustang and Torino, as well as in many non-Fords, such as the Camaro, Chevelle, and others. Aftermarket companies offer a full range of parts for the 8.8- and 9-inch axles. After high-performance use and/or many miles, the 8.8- and 9-inch axle assemblies need to be rebuilt. Author and driveline expert Joe Palazzolo guides you through each step of the rebuild process for 8.8- and 9-inch models, so you can confidently complete the work yourself. He explains in detail limited-slip and open differential disassembly, inspection, assembly, final calibration, and break-in. He also shows you how to identify worn ring-and-pinion gears, rebuild clutch packs, set the correct contact pattern for pinion and ring gears as well as backlash, and much more. In addition, you find out how to identify, search for, and buy a used 9-inch differential. A complete installation of a custom 9-inch into a Tri-Five Chevy is detailed from start to finish. If you've been looking for the ultimate Ford 8.8- and 9-inch axle assembly rebuild book, you've found it.

This Workbench book provides detailed step-by-step information for rebuilding the Ford 8.8- and 9-inch rear differentials, two of the most popular and best performing differentials on the market.

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