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

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 

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, 201610 yr by 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.

 

Ok good to know.

 

Is one stronger / preferred over the other?

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

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.

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