1967 vert using a 95 explorer 8.8 rear. Ok, so I've been researching the hell out of this and I don't mean to post a redundant thread, but I've been checking other forums about this and I can't find a definitive answer. Which is surprising considering the popularity of the 8.8 axle swap.
So I have the axle ready to go, the springs are in, the 3 1/4" perches are ready (8.8 housing is 3 1/4"). I'm using stock 95 Explorer plates with the shock tabs modified to accommodate the Mustang shocks.
So I'm having a problem finding the u-bolts. Other threads mentioned having them custom made but aren't clear about the specs. Some say half inch, some say 12 mm.
Width is an issue also. Since the plates and perches are 3 1/4", I assumed the bolts would be as well. But some say use 3 1/8" bolts and "massage" them on. This may be correct because when I look up Explorer u-bolts in parts catalogs it comes up 3 1/8".
Next issue is length. Stock Explorer u-bolts are 8 5/8". Excess can be carefully cut off, but I want to be sure I have enough thread to lock it down.
Finally there's the issue of gap. The mustang grab a trak leafs use a 3" u-bolt. If I use a larger width bolt there should be a gap between the leafs and the sides of the bolts. Is this an issue and is there a remedy? Thanks in advance for any replies.
So I have the axle ready to go, the springs are in, the 3 1/4" perches are ready (8.8 housing is 3 1/4"). I'm using stock 95 Explorer plates with the shock tabs modified to accommodate the Mustang shocks.
So I'm having a problem finding the u-bolts. Other threads mentioned having them custom made but aren't clear about the specs. Some say half inch, some say 12 mm.
Width is an issue also. Since the plates and perches are 3 1/4", I assumed the bolts would be as well. But some say use 3 1/8" bolts and "massage" them on. This may be correct because when I look up Explorer u-bolts in parts catalogs it comes up 3 1/8".
Next issue is length. Stock Explorer u-bolts are 8 5/8". Excess can be carefully cut off, but I want to be sure I have enough thread to lock it down.
Finally there's the issue of gap. The mustang grab a trak leafs use a 3" u-bolt. If I use a larger width bolt there should be a gap between the leafs and the sides of the bolts. Is this an issue and is there a remedy? Thanks in advance for any replies.