A rear end swap question

[55Belair]

I have a ford 8.8 to install in the 55. Everything it looks like an easy swap, except the pinion center line is not centered as is the stock unit, it's off center about 2 inches to the side, so my question is can this be run this way, or do I have to shorten one side to get the pinion center point in the center. If I leave it alone it measures about 59.5", if I have 2" cut out, and modify the axle it will still work fine, I really could some help on this, thanks Ron

[chevman57]

Ron i think i read somewhere that that didn`t hurt anything, being off a little like that.

[thehazmatguy]

I wouldn't worry about the off center thing at all. That's how Ford runs them in all there trucks, so u-joint issues shouldn't be a problem. Also, I have read over and over that the 8.8 is a great 4X4 rear end, if the offset was an issue I think the news would be out by now.

Is you car lowered? I would check driveline clearance just to be on the safe side.

[55Belair]

Thanks for the help, I am going to lower it a couple inches rear, 3 in the front, I also don't like the offset look, even if it works OK, so what I think I will do is have the long side cut down to match the short side, that will net 56.50 inch wide, then go ahead and mini tub the inside fenders, move the springs inside the frame rails, I have to replace the trunk floor anyway. That should work fine with 3" backspace wheels, I also may be able to use the rear Explorer sway bar with the springs inboard. I will take some photos on this when it happens next winter.

[MikeKy55]

There isn't much use in moving the springs inside the frame rails unless you narrow the frame as well. If you think about it, the tire will hit the frame first no matter if the springs are moved inboard or simply pocketed under the frame. Plus with keeping the springs under the frame rail the car will be more stable. The closer together the springs are, the more body roll you will have.