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Yukon Gear 1541H Alloy 28-Spline Inner Rear Axle for 1968 to 1971 Ford 8 Inch 2.8L
The YA F8-28-27.18 is a 1541H microalloy steel inner rear axle shaft built for the Ford 8 inch rear differential with 28 splines as used in 1968 through 1971 Ford vehicles equipped with the 2.8L engine. At 27.18 inches in length, YA F8-28-27.18 fits the inner shaft position in this classic Ford application. The 1541H microalloy construction provides improved tensile strength and fatigue resistance compared to standard 1040 carbon steel replacement shafts, making it an ideal upgrade or restoration part for Ford muscle cars, compacts, and trucks from this era. When the original shaft is cracked, worn at the splines, or has been bent by track use or off-road abuse, YA F8-28-27.18 provides a direct replacement with a strength improvement over OE specifications.
Features and Benefits
- Designed for the Ford 8 inch rear differential with 28 splines in 1968-1971 2.8L applications
- 27.18 inch inner shaft length for correct fitment
- 1541H microalloy steel for improved strength over 1040 carbon steel replacements
- Precision-machined splines for accurate differential side gear engagement
- Correct OE-style bearing surface dimensions
- Ideal for restoration, street, and mild performance applications
- Classic Ford compact and intermediate vehicle application
- Backed by Yukon Gear manufacturer limited warranty
Vehicle Fitment
| Year | Make | Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 | Ford | Various | 8 inch rear differential, 28 spline, 2.8L engine application |
| 1969 | Ford | Various | 8 inch rear differential, 28 spline, 2.8L engine application |
| 1970 | Ford | Various | 8 inch rear differential, 28 spline, 2.8L engine application |
| 1971 | Ford | Various | 8 inch rear differential, 28 spline, 2.8L engine application |
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | YA F8-28-27.18 |
| UPC | 883584119951 |
| Axle Housing | Ford 8 inch (1968-1971 2.8L) |
| Spline Count | 28 |
| Shaft Length | 27.18 inches |
| Position | Inner rear |
| Material | 1541H microalloy steel |
| Warranty | Yukon Gear manufacturer limited warranty |
What Is Included
- One 1541H alloy inner rear axle shaft (YA F8-28-27.18)
- Sold individually
Frequently Asked Questions
Does installing this axle shaft affect my factory warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, your dealer cannot void your factory warranty solely because of an aftermarket part installation. They must demonstrate the part caused the specific failure.
Is the Ford 8 inch different from the Ford 9 inch?
Yes. The Ford 8 inch is a smaller differential used in lighter-duty and four-cylinder applications while the Ford 9 inch is the larger, more popular axle used in V8 Mustangs, trucks, and performance vehicles. Verify which axle your vehicle uses before ordering YA F8-28-27.18.
How do I confirm my Ford has 28 splines versus another spline count?
Count the splines on the stub end of the existing axle shaft or count the splines in the side gear of the differential. The Ford 8 inch was produced in both 28 spline and other configurations depending on the application.
Can I use a 28 spline locker or limited-slip with this shaft?
Yes, as long as the locker or limited-slip is designed for the Ford 8 inch with 28 splines. Always confirm the differential internal spline count matches the shaft.
Is YA F8-28-27.18 suitable for track use?
The 1541H alloy provides a meaningful strength improvement over OE, making it suitable for mild performance use. For high-horsepower drag or road race applications, a 4340 chromoly shaft would provide greater security.
What fluid does the Ford 8 inch differential require?
Use 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil. For limited-slip differentials, add the appropriate friction modifier per the manufacturer specification.
Is this a C-clip or flange-retained axle shaft?
The Ford 8 inch uses a C-clip axle retention system. The differential must be partially disassembled to remove the C-clip before the shaft can be withdrawn.
What are common failure modes for the Ford 8 inch axle shaft?
Spline wear from high-torque launches and stress fractures at the spline-to-shaft transition are the most common failure modes. The 1541H alloy in YA F8-28-27.18 resists both better than standard alloy.
What warranty does YA F8-28-27.18 carry?
Yukon Gear provides a manufacturer limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase.
Installation Instructions
- Raise and support the vehicle safely. Remove the wheel and tire.
- Remove the differential cover and drain the gear oil.
- Remove the pinion shaft lock bolt and pull out the pinion shaft.
- Push the old axle shaft inward to expose the C-clip. Remove the C-clip and slide out the shaft.
- Inspect the axle bearing and seal inside the axle tube. Replace if worn.
- Apply gear oil to the spline end of YA F8-28-27.18 and slide into the axle tube.
- Engage the splines and install the C-clip. Pull the shaft outward to seat the clip.
- Reinstall the pinion shaft and lock bolt to specification.
- Install the differential cover with new sealant. Fill with correct gear oil.
- Reinstall the wheel and tire. Road-test and inspect for leaks.
Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov.
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