What would be the difference between the front and rear axles between my 1997 f150 xlt and an f250 light duty? Besides the diffence in the lug pattern.

 

The rear f250ld(or 7700 package) has a sterling 10.25 which is the same axle as an f250 super duty. The front still has an 8.8 which is no different than a regular 4x4 f150.

 

ok, so between my 9.75 and the 10.25, would there be any benifit to a swap?
I'm still planning my rebuild and want to keep my ifs but wouldn't care to bulk up the rear end.
can it be modded to keep my 5 lug rims. Sorry, I'm not an axle guy.

 

Yes you can get 5 lug hubs, but you will have to do the disc brakes/drums or whatever it has accordingly. The 10:25 would be much tougher than the 9.75. If you brake a 9.75 then you should be using something bigger than a f150 if that gives you any kinda idea.

 

really? sweet i got a 10.25 rear end

 

^ true, but a newer (heavier) truck wont be an option for several years. I figure the truck will do for now but the next few months will be hell, our 3/4 chevy just laid down on me so my truck is our new full time puller. I have hopes of getting the E250 back to running and use it for pulling that damn cooler trailer. Boss man is looking into trading in his truck for a much needed ton ton duelly, but that will take a while.

Like I said, just planning my rebuild for next summer.
Thanks for the info guys.

 

I personally don't think (after what I do with my truck) that the upgrade would be worth the cost/effort...just an opinion. The 9.75 in our trucks is no slouch, and as mentioned, if you need a 10.25, you don't have enough truck anyways!