Dorman 697-311 Differential Ring and Pinion - Rear

Dorman 697-311 Differential Ring and Pinion

Dorman 697-311 is a standard replacement differential ring and pinion for vehicles equipped with an 8.8-inch rear axle and a 4.10 gear ratio. It directly replaces the original equipment design on specific Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, and Mazda applications, making it a practical choice for restoring driveline performance.

Use this ring and pinion set when you need a direct-fit rear differential gear set for Ford F-150, Mustang, Explorer, and other listed applications. The Dorman 697-311 part number is also a useful reference when comparing OE-style replacement gears for 8.8-inch rear axle service.

Key Features

• Gear ratio: 4.1 for rear axle applications
• Standard replacement grade for OE-style service
• Package contents: ring gear and pinion gear
• Direct replacement for specific vehicle years, makes, and models
• Compatible with rear-position 8.8-inch ring gear applications

Detailed Description

This differential ring and pinion set is built for rear axle service where a 4.10 ratio is specified. It is a direct replacement for the original equipment on a wide range of trucks, SUVs, vans, and performance cars, including Ford F-150, Ford Mustang, and Ford Explorer applications. The Dorman 697-311 helps restore proper final-drive gearing after differential wear, gear damage, or ratio changes that require an OE-style replacement.

This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 172286, 182286) for the same application.

What It Is Used For

• Replacing worn or damaged rear differential gears
• Restoring the original 4.10 axle ratio
• Correcting gear noise caused by gear wear or improper setup
• Repairing driveline issues after differential service
• Maintaining proper rear axle performance in Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, and Mazda vehicles

Installation Notes and Tips

Fits 1991-2014 Ford Explorer, rear; 2003-2013 Ford E-150, rear; 1997-2013 Ford Expedition, rear; 1983-2013 Ford F-150, rear; 1979-2013 Ford Mustang, rear; 1992-2011 Ford Crown Victoria, rear; 1990-2011 Ford Ranger, rear; 1981-2011 Lincoln Town Car, rear; 1975-2011 Mercury Grand Marquis, rear; 2007-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, rear; 2001-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, rear; 1997-2010 Mercury Mountaineer, rear; 2007-2008 Ford E-150 Econoline, rear; 1983-2002 Ford E-150 Econoline, rear; 1994-2008 Mazda B4000, rear; 1994-2007 Mazda B3000, rear; 2003-2005 Ford E-150 Club Wagon, rear; 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator, rear; 1998-2005 Lincoln Navigator, rear; 2004 Ford F-150 Heritage, rear; 2003-2004 Mercury Marauder, rear; 1983-2002 Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon, rear; 1983-1998 Ford E-250 Econoline, rear; 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII, rear; 1990-1997 Ford Aerostar, rear; 1987-1997 Ford Thunderbird, rear; 1979-1997 Mercury Cougar, rear; 1984-1996 Ford Bronco, rear; 1984-1992 Lincoln Mark VII, rear; 1983-1991 Ford E-250 Econoline Club Wagon, rear; 1987-1991 Ford LTD Crown Victoria, rear; 1987-1991 Mercury Colony Park, rear; 1984-1989 Ford F-250, rear; 1975-1986 Ford LTD, rear; 1979-1986 Mercury Capri, rear; 1975-1986 Mercury Marquis, rear; 1983 Ford E-100 Econoline, rear; 1983 Ford E-100 Econoline Club Wagon, rear; 1978-1983 Ford Fairmont, rear; 1980-1983 Lincoln Mark VI, rear.

Verify axle housing type, ring gear diameter, and gear ratio before installation. Differential setup requires precise backlash, pinion depth, and bearing preload measurements, so professional installation is recommended for proper gear mesh and long-term durability.

Quality Assurance

Dorman markets this as a standard replacement part that directly replaces the original equipment design on the listed applications. The Dorman 697-311 is built for OE-style fitment and application-specific service.