[Hemlock]

I went to a junk yard today and bought a used 8.8 rear end out of a 1989 v-8 Mustang. I decided that I wasn't going to mess around with putting it in the car without a complete new rebuild. I am looking at a lot of parts and trying to guess what I should buy and what I should avoid.

My first question is what differential to buy??? I have been checking around and the Ford Racing standard duty traction-lok part is $200 or so and then there are ones that are around $450+, are they worth the extra cash?

I am also torn between the 3.73 and the 3.55 gear ratio. When I put the new stroker motor in, I put a new z class superduty T-5 in my car and with my old 7.5 rear end with the stock 2.73 gearing the speedo reads like 45 when I am doing 65+ mph in 3rd gear I rarely use forth and still haven't hit 5th yet LOL. I would just like to know what is the best gear ratio for this new trans?

I am also wondering what type of axles to buy, the 28 spline or the 31 spline? I know the 31 spline is stronger but the parts for them are more expensive. Is it worth the extra cash?

I am just trying to find a good route to take in this rebuild without spending money on stuff that doesn't make a big difference.

Thanx for taking the time to read my post,
Robert

[lxarlo]

most likely you already have a traction lok in the rear end you just purchased. i would probably go with a 3.55:1 ring and pinion with that engine. for a complete rebuild, i would get
axle bearings (2)
axle seals (2)
pinion bearings
pinion races
carrier bearings
carrier races
crush sleeve
pinion nut
slinger
motorcraft 75-140 synthetic gear oil (2)
ford XL-3 friction modifier (1)
traction lok rebuild kit