When it comes to upgrading your ride for better performance on the drag strip, the choice of rear end can make all the difference. Enter the Ford 9 Inch Rear End: a legend in the world of drag racing. Developed in the late 1950s, this rear end assembly became a staple in Ford vehicles and quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional durability and adaptability. Its robust design and easy customization options have made it the go-to choice for racers looking for a competitive edge.
The Ford 9 Inch Rear End’s popularity stems from its unique combination of strength, versatility, and reliability. Renowned for its heavy-duty construction, it can handle high horsepower and torque loads, making it ideal for the punishing demands of drag racing. Its removable third member, allowing for quick ratio changes and repairs, illustrates why this component is not just a part of the vehicle, but a critical performance enhancer.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the key features of the Ford 9 Inch Rear End that have solidified its status as a powerhouse in automotive performance. Whether you’re building a car from scratch or upgrading your current setup, understanding what makes this rear end stand out will help you make informed decisions that maximize your car’s potential on the track.
Durability
One of the Ford 9 Inch Rear End’s most impressive features is its unmatched durability. Crafted with high-grade steel and engineered to withstand intense stress, it’s built for the long haul. The center section, or third member, is notably robust, featuring a large diameter pinion and high-strength gears that can handle the immense forces generated during drag races. This rear end is designed with extra webbing in the casting of the center section, which adds significant structural integrity without excessive weight. Whether you’re launching hard at the strip or powering through high-speed passes, the Ford 9 Inch Rear End ensures that reliability is the last thing you need to worry about.
Customization
Flexibility is at the core of the Ford 9 Inch Rear End’s design, making it a favorite among racers who demand a tailored approach to their vehicle’s performance. This rear end offers an extensive range of customization options that cater to diverse racing needs and preferences. Racers can choose from various gear ratios to optimize acceleration and top speed, depending on their specific track conditions and competition class. The differential types available—such as limited-slip, locking, and spool—provide further choices to enhance traction and handling. Moreover, housing specifications can be selected to balance weight and rigidity, ensuring that each racer gets exactly what they need. With such a wide array of options, the Ford 9 Inch Rear End not only meets the expectations of different racing styles but truly enhances them.
Performance
The Ford 9 Inch Rear End isn’t just popular for its robustness—it’s a performance powerhouse. This rear end excels in delivering power efficiently from the engine to the wheels, minimizing drivetrain loss and maximizing thrust. Its high pinion design allows for more favorable gear meshing, reducing stress on the gears while improving overall mechanical efficiency. This translates to quicker starts and more responsive acceleration, crucial in shaving seconds off your drag times. Additionally, the superior alignment and stability provided by its sturdy construction enhance handling, giving drivers the confidence to push their vehicles harder and faster around the track.
Benefits of Upgrading to a Ford 9 Inch Rear End
Upgrading to a Ford 9 Inch Rear End offers multiple benefits that can transform your racing experience:
Enhanced Traction Control: The ability to customize differential setups allows drivers to fine-tune their vehicle’s grip on the track, leading to better traction and reduced slip in high-speed scenarios.
- Greater Durability: With its heavy-duty construction, the Ford 9 Inch Rear End withstands higher torque and power outputs, making it suitable for more powerful engines and aggressive racing. This durability also means fewer breakdowns and repairs, which can be a game-changer during a competitive season.
- Versatility: Whether you’re racing on asphalt or dirt, in professional environments or local events, this rear end’s adaptability makes it ideal for a wide range of applications. Its proven track record in various forms of racing underlines its capability to perform in diverse conditions and setups.
- Customization Options: Being able to select from a wide range of gears, differential types, and housing options means you can build a rear end that matches your specific racing style and the demands of different tracks.
- Increased Resale Value: Vehicles equipped with a Ford 9 Inch Rear End often hold their value better due to the high demand and respect for this durable, high-performance component in the racing community.
Installation:
Tools Needed
To successfully install a Ford 9 Inch Rear End, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Set of wrenches and sockets (standard and metric sizes)
- Torque wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- Floor creeper
- Pry bar
- Hammer
- Sealant (for differential cover)
- Gear oil
- Shop rags
- Safety glasses and gloves
Step-by-Step Overview
Follow these steps to install the Ford 9 Inch Rear End correctly:
Preparation:
- Safely elevate and support the vehicle with jack stands.
- Remove the wheels to access the rear end more easily.
Remove the Existing Rear End:
- Disconnect the driveshaft by unbolting it from the differential.
- Disconnect the brake lines and wiring (if applicable).
- Unbolt the shocks and springs from the axle.
- Carefully lower the old rear end and remove it from under the vehicle.
Install the New Ford 9 Inch Rear End:
- Position the new rear end assembly under the vehicle.
- Raise it into place and align it with the suspension mounting points.
- Reattach the springs and shocks to the new axle.
- Connect the brake lines and wiring to the corresponding parts on the new rear end.
- Bolt the driveshaft to the new differential.
Final Checks and Adjustments:
- Ensure all bolts and fasteners are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.
- Check the alignment and make any necessary adjustments.
- Fill the differential with new gear oil and apply sealant to the differential cover.
- Reinstall the wheels.
Test Drive:
- Lower the vehicle and take it for a test drive.
- Listen for unusual noises and ensure the vehicle handles correctly.
- Check for any leaks or loose components after the test drive.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid these common mistakes when installing a Ford 9 Inch Rear End:
- Not Torquing Bolts Properly: Failing to use a torque wrench can lead to bolts being too loose or too tight, which might cause premature wear or failure.
- Poor Alignment: Ensure the rear end is perfectly aligned with the vehicle’s geometry to avoid uneven tire wear and handling issues.
- Ignoring Brake Line and Wiring Connections: Make sure all connections are secure to prevent leaks and electrical issues.
- Forgetting to Check Gear Oil Level: Always fill the differential with the correct type and amount of gear oil to ensure proper lubrication and cooling of the gears.
Comparative Analysis: Ford 9 Inch Rear End vs. 12 Bolt vs. Dana 60
When considering upgrades for drag racing, the choice of rear end is critical. Three popular choices are the Ford 9 Inch Rear End, the 12 Bolt, and the Dana 60. Each has its unique strengths and potential drawbacks, especially in the context of drag racing.
Ford 9 Inch Rear End:
Pros:
- Extremely versatile, with a vast array of aftermarket parts available.
- Known for its durability and ability to handle high torque loads.
- Removable third member makes gear swaps quicker and easier, a significant advantage in racing scenarios.
Cons:
- Heavier than some alternatives, which might affect performance in lighter vehicles.
- Generally more expensive due to the high demand and extensive aftermarket support.
12 Bolt:
Pros:
- Offers great strength and is capable of handling significant torque.
- Typically lighter than the Ford 9 Inch, which might benefit lighter race cars.
- Less expensive than the Ford 9 Inch, making it a cost-effective option.
Cons:
- Fewer customization options compared to the Ford 9 Inch.
- Not as robust when subjected to the extreme stresses of higher horsepower applications.
Dana 60:
Pros:
- Known for its extreme durability and strength, suitable for very high-power applications.
- Good for applications requiring a lot of traction; commonly used in heavier and more powerful vehicles.
Cons:
- The heaviest option, which can be a disadvantage in terms of weight distribution and overall vehicle balance.
- Limited aftermarket options compared to the Ford 9 Inch, which restricts customization.
Conclusion
Throughout this article, we’ve explored the standout qualities of the Ford 9 Inch Rear End, a component celebrated for its robustness, adaptability, and performance-enhancing capabilities. With its roots deeply embedded in the history of automotive engineering, this rear end offers a combination of durability and flexibility that is hard to match. The ability to customize gear ratios, differential types, and other specifications makes it an ideal choice for anyone serious about drag racing.
We’ve also compared the Ford 9 Inch Rear End with alternatives like the 12 Bolt and Dana 60, considering factors such as weight, cost, and customization potential. Each has its advantages and trade-offs, making them suitable for different racing conditions and vehicle requirements.
Whether you are upgrading an existing vehicle or building a new one from the ground up, the Ford 9 Inch Rear End offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance traction, handling, and overall performance. Its proven track record on various tracks and under diverse conditions speaks volumes about its capability to transform your racing experience.
Is the Ford 9 Inch Rear End right for you? Consider your vehicle’s power, the racing conditions you typically face, and your specific performance goals. If you’re looking for a rear end that offers both high performance and the ability to fine-tune to your exact needs, it might just be the upgrade your vehicle needs to edge out the competition.
Ready to Take Your Drag Racing to the Next Level?
At Trick Chassis, we understand the passion and precision that go into every drag racing build. That’s why we offer top-of-the-line options for racers looking to upgrade their setup with a reliable and high-performance rear end. One of our standout offerings is the Universal 9″ Rear End Housing With Axles package, perfect for those who demand the best in durability and customization.
Choose your axle splines from industry-leading manufacturers like Strange Engineering or Moser Axles, ensuring you get the exact performance you need. Our package not only provides superior strength and flexibility but also fits seamlessly with a variety of setups, making it a versatile choice for any racer.
Don’t settle for less when you can have the best. Check out our Universal 9″ Rear End Housing With Axles package today and step up your game on the track!
Shopping for Rear End Assemblies? Check Out These Great Products:
- Housing and Axle Packages
- GM G-Body Rear Axle Assemblies
- GM F-Body Rear Axle Assemblies
- Rear Axle Assemblies GM A-Body
- GM X-Body Rear Axle Assemblies
