I've tried searching and found one thread that says you can use some axles from an EA71 with an EA81. My question is what kind of differences should I be looking for (between the axles, I can't check the position of the starter or the bellhousing on the donor without going back to the yard)? I pulled an axle out of a hatchback (can't remember the year, maybe 84-86) a week or so ago to put in my '85 Brat. As far as I can see they look to be the same size, dia. etc... Would the difference be obvious? I just want to make sure before I try to swap 'em and wind up breaking something because they weren't interchangeable. Thanks for any advice.

Gen 2 axles are all the same. EA71, EA81 - doesn't matter. Gen 2's are:

 

80-84 Wagons, Coupes, Sedans

80-89 Hatchbacks

82-87 Brats

 

It should be noted however, that 2WD front axles have a smaller diameter shaft, and a smaller diameter outer joint. They will still fit on a 4WD, but they are apparently not as strong. Shaft diameter is 23mm for 2WD, and 25mm for 4WD. I've never noticed a problem running 2WD shafts in my lifted wagon, but one must figure they did it for *some* reason.....

 

GD

Awesome, thats what I thought but just wanted to be sure. Thanks!!