Introduced in 1982 the 8.5-inch rear end was used in a variety of Ford vehicles including the Mustang and F-150. It was also used in some Mercury and Lincoln vehicles. The 8.5-inch rear end is considered to be a relatively weak rear end and it is not suitable for high-performance applications.
- Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Low cost to manufacture
- Widely available
- Cons:
- Not suitable for high-performance applications
- Prone to breaking under heavy loads
- Limited aftermarket support
8.6-inch Rear End
The 8.6-inch rear end is a newer and stronger rear end that is used in a variety of Ford vehicles including the Mustang and F-150. It was also used in some Mercury and Lincoln vehicles. The 8.6-inch rear end is a significant improvement over the 8.5-inch rear end and it is suitable for high-performance applications.
- Pros:
- Stronger and more durable than 8.5-inch rear end
- Can handle higher torque loads
- Wider gear ratios available
- Larger ring and pinion gears for better strength and durability
- Wide range of aftermarket parts and support
- Cons:
- More expensive than 8.5-inch rear end
- Heavier and larger than 8.5-inch rear end
In summary, the 8.6-inch rear end is a better choice for high-performance applications and is more robust and durable than the 8.5-inch rear end. The choice between the two depends on the requirements and intended use of the vehicle.
