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 Traction-Lok 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.r
Acknowledgments
 Introduction
 What is a Workbench® Book? 
Chapter 1:
Axle History and Identification 
 8-Inch 
 9-Inch 
 8.8-Inch 
 Front Axle Applications 
 93½8-Inch 
 Part Numbers 
Chapter 2: 
Axle Removal 
 Safety Equipment 
 General Procedures 
 Brake System Removal 
 Leaf Spring Removal 
Chapter 3: 
8.8-Inch Axle Disassembly and Inspection 
 Optional Upgrades 
 Disassembly Preparation 
 Axle Housing Disassembly 
 Traction-Lok Differential Disassembly 
Chapter 4: 
8.8-inch Axle Assembly 
 Traction-Lok Differential Assembly
 Axle Housing, Wheel End Bearing and Seal Assembly 
 Ring and Pinion Gear Set Assembly 
Chapter 5: 
9-Inch Axle Disassembly and Inspection 
 Physical Differences 
 Strength Differences 
 Axle Shaft Splines 
 Disassembly Procedure 
 Brake Drums and Axle Shaft Dissambly 
 Third Member and Pinion Cartridge Removal 
 Summary 
Chapter 6:
9-Inch Axle Assembly 
 Open-Differential Assembly 
 Traction-Lok Assembly 
 Third-Member Assembly 
 Axle Housing Assembly 
Chapter 7: 
Ring and Pinion Assembly 
 Face-Hobbed Gears 
 Face-Milled Gears 
 Break–In Procedure 
 Gear Ratio Selection and Tooth Combinations
 
Chapter 8: 
Performance 9-Inch Axle Installation 
 Vehicle Acquisition and Inspection 
 Drivetrain Upgrades 
 Transmission Installation 
 Spring Pocket Kit Installation 
 Wheel Tub Installation 
 Axle Ratio Selection 
 Summary 
Appendix: 9-Inch Axle Identification Codes
 Source Guide