My understanding is that it is a direct bolt in. However, I was originally planning to take it to a good local shop (Warren Gear and Axle) to have it installed in a Lincoln Mark VIII aluminum pumpkin but using the stock SC gear ratios. Since I never had that done, I can't be sure if it needs the ends machined or not. If it did need this, the shop would have taken care of that for me. Sorry I can't be more specific.
Maybe someone on the forum that knows diff's better than me could answer this question for sure.
FWIW I did find this on Summit's website for this diff:
Is this differential compatible with C-clip axles?
Asked by ANTHONY on December 24, 2018
A:
Hi,
Leo at a Ring & Pinion Shop in North Detroit said "Yes-It will work with a Ford 8.8 IRS rear end."
Regards,
L. Mattis
Ann Arbor, MI.
LARRY D from MI answered on December 25, 2018
A:
Yes
SHANE from IL answered on December 25, 2018
A:
110%
CEJAY from MI answered on December 25, 2018
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