Ford ranger rear end

[DADI03]

I have a 2000 ford ranger that I'm going to fix up for my son who will be on the road before l know it. It needs some work. Most of it I've got figured out. It's an old truck with its share of leaks. The thing I'm having trouble with is the rear end. Not looking to put a ton of money into it. Just trying to find the right one at a decent price. When l Google the tag on the dif none of the ratios come up. There are some close but not exact. Anyone know a good place to get them at a decent price? What to look for and look out for.

 

[BillsCamino]

I thought Ford put the rearend ratio codes on a label on the driver's door jam

 

[CTS Tactical]

That should be a 7.5" with 10" brakes and 3.72 gear. What is wrong with yours? I believe from that ratio it would be either a 4cyl or 3.0L V6.

 

[CTS Tactical]

Also, unless it is 4WD then differential ratio is not that important. You would just have to re-calibrate the speedo if you change ratios. Personally I would like a 4:11 in my 03 Ranger. Better low end, better for towing the boat.

 

[DADI03]

It's 2wd 4 cylinder.

It knocks real bad. When it's jacked up you can slide the tires in and out about a 1/2 inch. I haven't opened it up yet to see if it's worth rebuilding

 

[CTS Tactical]

A little end play in the axles is normal. Too many things could cause the "knocking" to venture a guess. Could be axle bearings but if they were that bad it is likely the brakes would be soaked with diff lube. Could be a tooth busted on the pinion. Several things that could cause it.

 

[StuP]

I'd pull it apart and see what's going on.

 

[Stampede]

The ratio code should be on the door tag.

 

[CTS Tactical]

The ratio code should be on the door tag.

There is an axle code on the door tag. You have to google the chart to see what the code means:

Ford 7.5 & 8.8 Inch Axle Tag & Door Codes

www.therangerstation.com

 

[Stampede]

There is an axle code on the door tag. You have to google the chart to see what the code means:

Ford 7.5 & 8.8 Inch Axle Tag & Door Codes

www.therangerstation.com

Yep - just like the paint and trim codes.