28 spline axles in 31 spline diff

[m1dn1temarauder]

can i use my 28 spline axles with a 31 spline diff?

[Bradley G]

maybe with a big enough hammer :P NO

[m1dn1temarauder]

why no. please explain.

[Bradley G]

need to go with the same number of splines between axles and carrier or it won't fit.
Just like tools, you need the correct size

why no. please explain.

[SC Cheesehead]

why no. please explain.

^^^^^ What Bradley said ^^^^^

28 ≠ 31

[RoyLPita]

I tried this with a 31 spline Mustang carrier with one of our 28 spline axles. The axle went through the middle of the spider gear.

Hope this helps.

[SpartaPerformance]

If you know what splines are it's easy to understand why you would need matching ones. If you don't let blow some hot air for a bit. The splines are the ridges that run parallel with the axle shaft, the fit into the diff, the splines from both interlock with each other and that how torque is transmitted to the axles. If they don't match you'll be stripping the splines and suffer a rear end break down that WILL be more costly then just buying the correct parts from the beginning.

[ImpalaSlayer]

this is like asking will a 1/4" socket fit a 3/8" bolt head.

[Joe Walsh]

Not to be an A-hole, but could we have an 'Auto mechanics 101' section for people who come on to automotive forums and start asking really obvious or basic; 'I should know this or I shouldn't even be attempting this' questions?

"Please explain why 28 spline axles won't work in a 31 spline carrier"

Don't worry about the minor difference between the numbers...FORD is just trying to confuse everyone and sell more axles....:rolleyes:

Sorry, I'm done venting.

[DOOM]

AJ is back!!! :hide:

[Phrog_gunner]

AJ is back!!! :hide:

Doom this isn't the 'Detailing' thread, are you lost? :P

[Blackened300a]

The guys from the middle east, give him a break. (for now)

[FordNut]

No, but...

At least on a Detroit Locker you can change the 31 spline spider gears to 28 spline gears, then the 28 spline axles will fit. I suspect you could do the same thing with a traction-lock.

Why would you do that? Maybe you get a great deal on a 31 spline differential unit and want to use it with a rear end that you only have 28 spline axles for?

BTW, the opposite trick won't work because the axle holes in the differential unit are too small for the 31 spline axles to fit through even if it had 31 spline gears in it.

[Stranger in the Black Sedan]

maybe someone makes an insert that adapts 31 down to 28 splines

(kidding)