It is good to maintain your vehicle in the right order, specifically the differential cover. If not well protected, the differential can overheat, get contaminated, and wear out, requiring expensive repairs.
However, the standard differential cover may not offer optimum protection. It may not provide adequate security against terrain, heat, or debris that may compromise your vehicle’s motion. But a Ford 8.8 differential cover guarantees its security and optimality.
What is a Differential Cover?
A differential cover is a protection sheath that covers the differential housing of a car’s rear axle. The differential is part of the equipment; without it, your wheels can turn at different speeds, especially when maneuvering. The cover protects the gears and fluid inside the differential from dust, debris, and moisture and helps cool the differential.
The vehicles possess several kinds of differential covers, stock-stamped steel being the most common, and aftermarket, which can be superior materials like cast aluminum or nodular iron. Such strips usually come with fins or greater thickness than the original ones for improved heat dissipation and reinforced construction.
Why Upgrade to an Aftermarket Differential Cover?
Buying an aftermarket differential cover is a good move if one wants to extend the lifespan of his car and its power output. Standard covers are usually made from stamped steel, while aftermarket covers are made from cast aluminium or nodular iron. This increases the overall rigidity, which is suitable for impacts, especially if one frequently drives on rocky terrain.
Another advantage of an aftermarket cover is its ability to enhance the car’s cooling system. Some aftermarket covers have fins or thicker walls to provide a heat sink. This maintains the differential fluid temperatures, assuring they are not overheating, and makes your differential long-lasting.
Types of 8.8 Differential Covers
Standard guards are the entry-level offering. They are normally constructed from stamped steel and intended for average road use. Nonetheless, the performance covers are much better if you are seeking improved performance. These are usually produced from more robust materials such as cast aluminium or nodular iron so that they are more resistant to shocks.
High-capacity differential covers are another, intended to accommodate more fluid than ordinary covers. This extra capacity helps to keep the differential cooler and is helpful when towing or dissing, off-road, or aggressive driving.
How to Choose the Right Differential Cover for Your Ford 8.8?
Choosing the right diff cover for your Ford depends on critical factors, such as vehicle usage, driving conditions, and budget.
Standard cover is enough if you’re mainly travelling on the highway or in the city. But if you often tow heavy loads, traverse off-road or other challenging terrains, or typically punish your car to its maximum, opting for premium cover is best.
Driving conditions are particularly critical in your determination. Off-road enthusiasts are conversely looking for a domed, high-impact steel plate, while high-performance enthusiasts may opt for a cast aluminum cover with cooling vents.
Budget is also an important factor to consider when deciding which mode of communication to employ. Though high-end options offer the most protection and advantages, many low-end options are quite capable.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide:
When installing, ensure the vehicle is securely raised and supported with jack stands before proceeding. Wear goggles and gloves to avoid flying particles and sharp ends that may harm you.
The first step is to drain the differential fluid. The old cover should be unbolted with a wrench and then pried off with a screwdriver. Scrub the surface of the differential housing and then remove any remains of gasket material and dirt.
Fit the new cover on the differential alongside the bolt holes for that model. Use gasket sealant with the cover, or you can use a new gasket if the cover is open-faced. Make sure you diagonally tighten the bolts to get equal contact with the drum. Replace the differential with the right sort of fluid.
Do not overtighten the bolts; this will lead to warping or leaking of the cover or the housing. Check and ensure the gasket or sealant has been installed optimally so that the petroleum products will not have a chance of seeping out. Ensure the differential fluid is packed to the right level before driving.
Ford 8.8 Differential Cover vs. Other Differential Covers
8.8 Ford is famous for its strength and sturdiness, which is why it is incorporated in regular and some off-road cars as well. It provides a good ride and gets the job done with relatively easy and complex tasks, and there are numerous accessories in the market for its enhancement. It usually consists of strengthened shells and cooling ribs to offer protection and dissipate heat.
However, in specific high-performance or extreme off-road conditions, it could not be less solid or versatile than other more extensive or particular differentials.
Upgrade Your Ford With The SPELAB Differential Cover!
From enhanced heat dissipation, superior shock absorbency, and enhanced protection for off-road use, selecting the right cover is critical.
SPELAB should be the best option for the Ford 8.8 differential covers. We feature various products that provide customers with enhanced reliability and versatility while providing the most suitable performance. By leveraging our skills and reliable products, SPELAB can offer the ideal differential cover to ensure a smooth and functional vehicle.
