i have an 02 with the 4.6 and i ttok it into the shop today and they said it was time to replace the engine. i was looking at getting the 5.4 installed but was curious if the 8.8 would handle the larger engine or if it would be affected negatively

 

usually the trans takes up the abuse before the rear. Unless your manual. Wouldnt worry about the rear

 

does the 5.4 use the same tranny as the 4.6? i have replaces the transmission with a used one already and would not like to do it again!

 

yes it should. SEARCH this forum, there are several write-ups...

EX: I swapped a 5.4 reusing everything from my 4sixxx. coils, tranny, etc

 

I think the 9.75 is needed mostly for towing. If you don't do a lot of heavy towing, the 8.8 will probably do just fine.

 

i aint popped mine yet with the 5.4 lightning. i'll let you know when it does. currently have 4k miles of ABUSE on that rear axle behind the lightning powerplant.

 

cool thanks for the replys, i was just checking because i had problems with it behind the 4.6 and dont know what i am getting into quite yet

 

ha thats not fair klitch yours is built! ya throw a locker or posi unit in it and the only thing u will ever have to worry about is axle shafts.

 

i should mention i recently grenaded the 8.8

was neat lookin