I own a '95 5.2l 4x4. Front diff had the ring and pinion removed due to bearing failure. I cant seem to find any of the 1st gen trucks here in our scrap yards. 2nd gens by the boatload. Will the front diff out of a 2nd gen fit in my 1st gen. it would make my life soooo much easier. I had a look under a couple of 2nd gens and they seem pretty close, mind you it was kinda hard to see up into the frame.

 

no the 97 up will not work, thats why they lump the 87-96 into one forum. put it to you this way the 89 sport 4x4 i had came with 3.90-1 gear ratio. the 97 up comes with an optional 3.91 ratio. that slight difference makes gear interchange impossible.
pretty sure crazy is going to give you the other 10 reasons a 97 up won't be a direct bolt.

 

No it will not.
The 1st Gens (87-96) have a Chry 7.25.
The 2nd Gens have a (97-99) AMC 35. (00-04) Chry 8.0

Best bet is to buy new ring and pinion. www.ringpinion.com has great prices.


Edit: LOL just 2. Stating the 2nd Gen axles.

 

did not know that the second gens used an amc front. so i can leave the AMC plate on the front of my freakin' mazda. maybe i won't get stuck again!