The Ford 8.8-inch rear differential has been around the Mustang market since 1986. Long a favorite of many Ford enthusiasts for its durability, and relatively cheap parts cost, the 8.8 has a presence in nearly every corner of the Mustang universe.

In recent years gear type differentials have become increasingly popular, especially in the Mustang market. Using a helical gearset, these differentials offer improved performance and traction as well as marked improvements in durability when compared to OEM clutch type limited slip units.

Strange Engineering has offered these differentials in the S-trac product line for the ford 9-inch differential, and Dana 60. The company has also offered other differential solutions in the past for the 8.8, but never an S-trac in 35-spline. However, at the 2015 PRI Show, Strange was showing off this differential now available in an astounding 35-spline configuration specifically for the 8.8.

“The 8.8 has been around for a long time, and we know it can take some abuse, but no one has ever offered this type of differential in 35-spline for an 8.8,” says Strange Engineerings JC Cascio. “This unit uses the same internal components as our popular 9-inch S-trac but in a package for the 8.8.”

The S-trac utilizes helical cut gears made from 9310 material that has been heat treated and coated. “There are no clutches, springs, or cones to wear out. This unit operates like an open differential under normal driving and then locks everything together when its under load.” says Cascio. The case is constructed for an 8620 forging that Cascio says offers incredible strength and minimal deflection of the differential. “This offers a long life to the differential, and allows the 8.8 guys to take things to the next level,”

Using this 35-spline differential allows 8.8 owners the option of utilizing Strange’s 35-spline alloy axles which Cascio says are able to handle a tremendous amount of horsepower. Since there’s no access to the inside of the differential owners will have to opt for either a C-clip eliminator kit, or 9-inch housing ends to retain the axle shafts. “We offer solutions for all the different braking configurations for hosing ends from Fox body to S197.”

Strange includes special bearings and spacers specific to this differential to allow for use of the larger 35-spline shafts. Cascio says that the differential is compatible with all 8.8 ring and pinion sets, and Strange offers everything needed to build a complete and durable 8.8 rearend. Whether you’re planning to go hardcore drag racing, have a high-powered street car that you love to cruise in, or you dodge cones and turn corners for fun in your Mustang, and you need a rearend that can handle the power, this is currently the baddest ticket for the 8.8 that we’re aware of.

“Now that horsepower is so easy to come by we need to make the parts to adapt to it,” says Cascio. The 35-spline S-trac for the Ford 8.8 is available now from Strange Engineering and already shipping to customers.