Gear install Tech

[Maraudermike1]

I got under my MM to install my 4.10's yesterday and it seems the gas tank is really close to the pumpkin. Does anybody know if the gas tank has to be dropped to do a gear swap? I know the sway bar has to be dropped. Is there any shortcuts or anything else I should know about doing a gear swap on these cars? Thanks guys!

[fastblackmerc]

I got under my MM to install my 4.10's yesterday and it seems the gas tank is really close to the pumpkin. Does anybody know if the gas tank has to be dropped to do a gear swap? I know the sway bar has to be dropped. Is there any shortcuts or anything else I should know about doing a gear swap on these cars? Thanks guys!

No, the gas tank does not need to be dropped.

[Maraudermike1]

That's good news. lol Is there anything else i should know about these cars in particular before i tear it apart? thanks

[FordNut]

Expect a very difficult time removing the rotors. Torch, hammer, cursing.

[babbage]

That's good news. lol Is there anything else i should know about these cars in particular before i tear it apart? thanks

Depending on mileage etc, I'd recommend new bearings on everything and new seals. You can replace the carrier entirely or just get new clutches for it. Some have done the +1 clutch mod using the carbon fiber cobra clutches and a stiffer F150 S-spring. You are taking it apart, might as well freshen everything. Richmond has a nice mega 8.8 install kit.

Take it easy for first 500 miles then switch to synthetic.

Thats what I would do, however I pay my gear guy to do labor cost $300 for gear install with new seals etc as above. Good luck.

[MM2004]

Nothing had to be removed when doing my gear swap.

Except the obvious.

I do not understand why most insist a 'break in' period for gears is essential?

Put in the gears and drive it like you stole it.

Good luck!

Mike.

[4play]

gas tank will go away once u jack up the body of the car and let rear wheels hang in the air.

[SGT_MERC]

I've never used a break in period, but I always go to an abandoned parking lot and do a series of slow and tight figure 8's. Helps to get the clutches all lubed up with the modifier. Everyone does their own thing I guess.

[Blackened300a]

I know the sway bar has to be dropped. Is there any shortcuts or anything else I should know about doing a gear swap on these cars? Thanks guys!

I never removed the away bar when working on the rear. Be sure to remove the ABS sensors to remove the C clips.

[Maraudermike1]

I never do a gear swap with out a complete bearing kit. They are relatively cheap and well worth it to know you won't have to rip it back apart. Btw, if anybody didn't know, the Ford Racing bearings in the Summit Racing catalog are actually ratech.