EA82 rear axle shaft differences from 86 to newer?

[firehawk618]

I'm looking to pick up a set of spare axles all around on my car to have on hand for spares.

When I look up an interchange it shows 85-86 the same rears but 87 and on are listed as different.

Is this true and do you guys know what the differences are?

Thanks

[two85s]

I am not an authority on differences between years etc.  What I found important is the number of splines and the length of the axles.  Also I think what the boots are made from is important.  Cheers 

[wagonist]

The biggest difference I've seen is that early (series 1, 84-87.5) rear shafts had floating CVs on both ends, whereas later ones only had a floating CV on the diff end. These are interchangeable.

Edited March 15, 2016 by wagonist

[firehawk618]

The biggest difference I've seen is that early (series 1, 84-87.5) rear shafts had floating CVs on both ends, whereas later ones only had a floating CV on the diff end. These are interchangeable.

 

Ok good to know.

 

Is one stronger / preferred over the other?

[amysgotitmade]

I have an 89 GL Wagon 3.9 gear ratio on my rear end and I'm wondering if it's safe to switch it out to a 1990 rear end same ratio I hope or different.  Not to many parts around for this car....or does anyone know where to go for after market or rebuilt subaru rear ends?  Thanks, A <3

[wagonist]

driveshafts or differential? The only differences are the ratios inside the diff.

 

Unusual to have a 3.9 ratio in an 89. Most are 3.7

take off the rear cover to count the teeth on the crown wheel. They can be swapped.

[jono]

just do not put incorrect rear end diff ratio to the front ratio though! If you change the rear ratio need to change front as well, unless you have a 4WD part time, auto 3 speed like my GLTA which had 3.45:1 front diff, 3.7:1 rear