8.8 welded tubes

[64 Cheyenne]

Is it really necessary to weld the tubes to the center section on my 8.8 conversion? I'm gonna be running 33s AX-15 stock engine. Can I do it with my MIG welder? I can borrow a stick welder if I have to,what type/kind of rod should I get. If I do it this way I'll practice on the D35. :rotf: Is this doeable for somebody such as myself or should I pay an xpert to have it done.

[dasbulliwagen]

120 volt MIG would not be big enough, youll need a 240 volt MIG to do that job, and yes do practice first. If you the stick route, maybe find someone whos really experienced witha stick welder. Or you can call a welder to come to you. Did that once on VW bus I was working on... had to weld in a new trans mount. cost like 40 bucks. I can't see it costing much more to weld axle tubes. If you don't plan on heavy wheeling or hard abusive driving I would probably just leave them alone. Ford did mount some of them behind V8's so they should be half way decent. Good luck!

[64 Cheyenne]

How about preheating before welding, and what type of wire or rod would I need? :dunno:

[Hawk]

I've heard you'll need high nickel rod for a stick welder. Your best bet is to let a pro do it, though. Also, I've heard that you should weld the top half, so if the welds crack, your axle doesn't seep.

[Pete M]

There is some debate as to whether it is really necessary. It is a weak point in the 8.8 axle, but that's relative. The carrier is a "weak point" too, but I don't see a ton of guys breaking them. For better or for worse, if I was swapping an Exp 8.8 under my truck, I'd probably not get the welding done. :dunno:

[Hawk]

I had a truss made for mine that goes over the top with an extra that BOLTS TO the pinion part of the housing, where the vibration dampener usually bolts to. I trust that enough to keep my tubes from spinning.

[BWMJ]

I ran a locked 8.8 in my YJ behind a V8 and a 5-speed with 34" swampers. Never had a problem.

[offroader461]

i have a 8.8 in my mustang pushing about 300HP and don't have a problem with it....

[jbhill]

ur supposed to preheat the cast section, preheating never hurts when welding thicker metals, as it allows for better penetration(just like a lady ;) )

[64 Cheyenne]

I'm sold, I'm running it! See if I can break it!

Thanks guys for the input :cheers:

[attaboybob]

I have spot welds on my tubes.

enough to resist but give if necessary.

someone said something once about

not wanting a solid weld all the way around. :dunno:

 

BOB