Hey all,

For those of you with the 9.75" rear end, what was the bolt pattern for '97 and '98? Is it the same as the 8.8" rear? (5x135MM) I have a line on buying one real cheap and I would like to swap it in to my truck, but I don't want to buy new wheels.

Any and all help will be appreciated.

Later,
Crotteau

 

They both share the 5 on 135mm pattern, as do all the 97-03 F-150s. Also, a 98 rear will still have drum brakes, so you won't have to worry about changing too much on the brakes. Also, you'll need to get a shorter drive shaft, as the pinion yoke on the 9.75" sticks out a bit farther.

-Flea

 

I agree with Fleas. But...why do the change? I believe the 8.8 and the 9.75 are rated to carry the same weight. The 9.75 has a higher torque input rating but the 8.8 is plenty strong for the 4.2 or even the 4.6 V8.