Source
r/fordranger•
campassi

Best way to keep both wheels spinning?

96 Ford Ranger, L4 with 5 speed transmission.

When in the mud the rear wheel with the least traction spins. I would rather both rear wheels spin in the mud.

Any recommendations on ways to alter the vehicle/differential so that both wheels will spin in the mud instead of only one?

Posted Mar 16, 2017, 12:57 AM UTC

611
Minyoface•

Get a rear diff from an explorer, gives you limited slip and disc brakes if im not mistaken. Or you could weld the diff solid, but thats not a good idea..

5
campassiOP•

is the braking system that currently connects the brake pedal to the drum brakes on the Ranger compatible with the disc brakes from an Explorer?

1
Minyoface•

Yes

3
Minyoface•

Here's a quick search result from the ranger station. http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/explorer_8-8_swap_no_welding.shtml

4
RangerSkyy•

You could also just purchase a traction device such as a ratcheting style locker, or for smoother operation, a limited slip carrier. The former is easier due to its easy installation in open carriers but is fairly aggressive for street use. The latter has smoother operation but requires you to purchase a limited slip carrier.

I have an Auburn limited slip in my Ranger and it is very responsive, yet comfortable in parking lots and sharp turns. The lockers I have owned are very effective, but too clunky and harsh for daily use. This goes for spools/mini spools too...

EDIT: Swapping to a L/S 8.8 is feasible and cheap too, but unless you decide to tear it down and rebuild it with new LS clutches, you really don't know what you're getting. The Trac-Lok system is great, but they do wear out. I was replacing LS clutch discs every year in my Bronco II.

3
campassiOP•

ratcheting style locker

is this hard to install?

1
RangerSkyy•

If you are mechanically inclined, no. It is fairly easy with some basic tools and knowledge. You can always watch a YouTube video too! Lol

1
Sierranevedaty•

Haven't heard of the ratcheting style locker. I would go 8.8 swap. Plus discs all the way around

1
RangerSkyy•

https://www.amazon.com/USA-Standard-Gear-F8-8-31-differential/dp/B007PJ92SU

Is just one example of many ratcheting type lockers.

EDIT: Ratcheting, as opposed to a Detroit style or helical/worm drive locker. Ratcheting lockers are cheaper and easier to install than other types.

2
Sierranevedaty•

Heard of the others ones but never a ratcheting. TIL

1
jzap•

Old trick from getting stuck in the snow with RWD... ...When in mud (or snow), lightly applying the parking brake will reduce the spin on the spinning wheel and cause the other wheel to turn.

Another solution would be to install a limited slip differential. Its not as aggressive as a locker, but almost as effective in sand or mud. You might be able to find a factory limited slip axle in a junkyard and just swap out the whole axle.

1