64 Cheyenne Posted May 6, 2009 Share Posted May 6, 2009 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. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dasbulliwagen Posted May 6, 2009 Share Posted May 6, 2009 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! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
64 Cheyenne Posted May 6, 2009 Author Share Posted May 6, 2009 How about preheating before welding, and what type of wire or rod would I need? :dunno: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hawk Posted May 6, 2009 Share Posted May 6, 2009 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. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pete M Posted May 6, 2009 Share Posted May 6, 2009 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: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hawk Posted May 6, 2009 Share Posted May 6, 2009 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. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BWMJ Posted May 6, 2009 Share Posted May 6, 2009 I ran a locked 8.8 in my YJ behind a V8 and a 5-speed with 34" swampers. Never had a problem. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
offroader461 Posted May 6, 2009 Share Posted May 6, 2009 i have a 8.8 in my mustang pushing about 300HP and don't have a problem with it.... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jbhill Posted May 7, 2009 Share Posted May 7, 2009 ur supposed to preheat the cast section, preheating never hurts when welding thicker metals, as it allows for better penetration(just like a lady ;) ) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
64 Cheyenne Posted May 7, 2009 Author Share Posted May 7, 2009 I'm sold, I'm running it! See if I can break it! Thanks guys for the input :cheers: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
attaboybob Posted May 9, 2009 Share Posted May 9, 2009 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 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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