1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials

Keep Your 1981 Ford Thunderbird in Top Shape with Quality Differentials

Whether you’re repairing or upgrading your Differential, using high-quality parts is key to keeping your 1981 Ford Thunderbird looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Rear Differential Cover Gaskets, Differential Bearings, and Differential Covers. Whether you’re replacing a damaged part or enhancing your truck’s style and protection, you’ll find exactly what you need to get the job done right.

Top-Rated Differentials from Trusted Brands

Looking for a reliable Differential? We’ve got you covered with options from brands you know and trust like National, Motive Gear, and Powertrax. For example, National Differentials start at just $7.99 with an average 4.3 star rating. Motive Gear and Powertrax offer similar pricing and quality, backed by strong customer feedback. With over 114 reviews and a solid 4 star average, you can shop with confidence knowing other Ford Thunderbird owners approve.

Competitive Prices and Extensive Inventory

The average price for a 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differential at Advance Auto Parts is around $143.50, with a range that starts at $1.29 and goes up to $883.99. With 99 options in stock from 14 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like Differential Shaft Lock Bolt, Oil Seal, and Cover Bolt For Ford 7.5", 8.8" & 9.75" start at just $5.99 and offer a great balance of form and function.

Explore Related Parts

While you’re upgrading or replacing your Differential, don’t forget to check out other key components like Drive Shafts and Axles and Universal Joints. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1981 Ford Thunderbird in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials

Yukon Gear – Positraction Internals For 8.8" Ford With 28 Spline Axles (Part No.16015)

Positraction Internals For 8.8" Ford With 28 Spline Axles

from

$336.99
Yukon positraction internals for 8.8″ Ford with 28 spline axles. This kit fits Yukon Gura Grip & Eaton positractions. Yukon uses higher quality materials and better techniques than OEM to ensure a longer lasting spider gear set. This kit does not include clutches. All components come with a one year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Product Features:
  • Spider gear kit
  • Fits Ford 8.8″ with Yukon Dura Grip positraction with 28 spline axles
  • Includes two side gears, two pinion gears, cross pin shaft, roll pin and spider gear thrust washers.
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Motive Gear – Differential Pinion Shim Kit (Part No.1100)

Differential Pinion Shim Kit

from

$7.99
High-quality Differential Component Shim

Product Features:
  • SHIM KIT FITS-8.25-F7.5-AMC20-GM0
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Pro-King – Differential Ring Gear Bolt (Part No.761A935)

Differential Ring Gear Bolt

from

$1.29
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

Product Features:
  • All products are designed to meet or exceed OE quality, form, fit and funtion.
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Powertrax – No-Slip Traction System (Part No.9206883108)

No-Slip Traction System

from

$544.99
For vehicles that are driven daily, the Powertrax No-Slip Traction System is the latest design in quiet traction-adding differential technology. It combines the automatic street-friendly smooth operation of a limited-slip differential with the traction performance of a locking differential. The Powertrax No-Slip locker easily installs in to your differential carrier using basic tools and without affecting your ring and pinion settings. Powertrax Grip-Lok, Lock-Right Lockers and No-Slip Traction Systems automatically provide 100% traction on-demand, under the toughest circumstances. The Powertrax Grip-Pro and Grip-LS performance limited slips offer smooth dependable torque transfer and traction for the best of both worlds!The Powertrax® Lock-Right Locker provides outstanding traction for off-road machines and race vehicles. Powertrax No-Slip Traction Systems deliver excellent performance to street-driven cars and trucks.
  • Powertrax® lockers range from the original, Lock-Right for serious straight-line performance, to the No-Slip traction system for street-able vehicles.
  • Powertrax® offers three levels of GRIP locking differentials, ranging from the clutch-type GRIP LS with a forged steel case, the gear-driven GRIP PRO and finally the GRIP LOK for extreme traction.
  • Powertrax® = Extreme Traction Systems!
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    USA Standard Gear – Master Overhaul Kit for the Ford 9" LM102910 Differential (Part No.37033)

    Master Overhaul Kit for the Ford 9" LM102910 Differential

    from

    $221.99
    USA Standard Master Overhaul kits let you finish your install with confidence. This kit uses Koyo bearings and races. Included are carrier bearings and races, pinion bearings and races, pinion seal, complete shim kit, ring gear bolts, pinion nut, crush sleeve (if applicable), oil baffles and slingers (if applicable), threading locking compound, marking compound with brush and gasket.

    Product Features:
    • Fits Ford 9″ with LM102910 carrier race
    • Uses Koyo bearings and races
    • Included are carrier bearings and races, pinion bearings and races, pilot bearing, pinion seal, complete shim kit, ring gear bolts, pinion nut, crush sleeve, thread locker, marking compound with brush and gasket.
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    Yukon Gear – Bearing Race Driver (Part No.56023)

    Bearing Race Driver

    from

    $219.99
    Bearing race driver. No return.

    Product Features:
    • Bearing race driver
    • Fits M88010 race
    • All steel construction
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    Motive Gear – Differential Bearing Kit – Timken (Part No.R7.5FRT)

    Differential Bearing Kit - Timken

    from

    $91.99
    Motive Gear Differential Bearing Kits Include Front & Rear Pinion Bearing, Pinion Seal, Carrier Bearings, Pilot Bearing Where Applicable, Gear Marking Compound, Crush Sleeve, Pinion Nut, Brush, Thread Locking Compound And Cover Gasket Or Rtv

    Product Features:
    • FORD 7.5″ BEARING & SEAL KIT (TIMKEN)
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    Yukon Gear – The Carrier Bearing Puller (Part No.56072)

    The Carrier Bearing Puller

    from

    $883.99
    The Yukon carrier bearing Puller works with an impact gun to quickly and safely remove carrier bearings without damaging them. This unit comes with a handy bench top stand and works with up to one ton applications including Dana 70HD, Dana 80, 10.25″ & 10.5″ Ford, or GM & Chrysler 11.5″ differentials.

    Product Features:
    • Carrier bearing puller
    • Works with an impact gun to safely and easliy remove carrrier bearings
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    Yukon Gear – Pinion Gear And Thrust Washer (0.750" Shaft) For 8.8" Ford (Part No.33297)

    Pinion Gear And Thrust Washer (0.750" Shaft) For 8.8" Ford

    from

    $8.99
    Pinion gear thrust washer (0.750″ shaft) for 8.8″ Ford.

    Product Features:
    • Pinion gear thrust washer
    • Fits Ford 8.8″
    • 0.750″ I.D.
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    Yukon Gear – Dura Grip Positraction For Ford 8.8" With 28 Spline Axles (Part No.26005)

    Dura Grip Positraction For Ford 8.8" With 28 Spline Axles

    from

    $834.99
    The Yukon Dura Grip provides aggressive yet smooth traction to give you the confidence & performance you need. Get longer life and better traction with the heavy duty Yukon Dura Grip Positraction. The Yukon Dura Grip uses a nodular case and forged 4320 internals for added strength along with composite clutches for high performance and long life. All units are Rebuildable and many offer upgrades to increase aggressiveness for racing applications. Each unit carries a one year warranty against defects.

    Product Features:
    • Fits Ford 8.8″ with 28 spline axles
    • 4-spring, clutch style positraction
    • Internal gears are manufactured using forged 4320 steel and cut to provide stronger teeth
    • Fully rebuildable
    • Assembled in the USA
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    Yukon Gear – Standard Open Side Gear And Thrust Washer For 7.5" Ford (Part No.33295)

    Standard Open Side Gear And Thrust Washer For 7.5" Ford

    from

    $19.99
    Standard Open side gear thrust washer for 7.5″ Ford.

    Product Features:
    • Side gear thrust washer
    • Fits Ford 7.5″
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    Yukon Gear – 1541H Alloy 4 Lug Rear Axle For ’84-’88 7.5" And 8.8" Ford Thunderbird Or Cougar (Part No.21184)

    1541H Alloy 4 Lug Rear Axle For '84-'88 7.5" And 8.8" Ford Thunderbird Or Cougar

    from

    $234.99
    Yukon 1541H alloy 4 lug rear axle for ’84-’88 7.5″ and 8.8″ Ford Thunderbird or Cougar with a length of 30″ inches and 28 splines. Yukon 1541H alloy axles offer a strength increase over stock while retaining a low cost. Yukon 1541H alloy rear axles come with a one year warranty against manufacturing defects. This is a C-clip axle.

    Product Features:
    • 28 spline
    • 4 lug
    • 30.0″ long
    • Fits Ford 7.5″ and 8.8″ in 1980-1988 Thunderbird and Cougar
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    USA Standard Gear – Standard Spider Gear Set For Ford 8.8" Trac Loc Posi, 31 Spline (Part No.39032)

    Standard Spider Gear Set For Ford 8.8" Trac Loc Posi, 31 Spline

    from

    $299.99
    Product Features:
    • Spider gear kit
    • Fits Ford 8.8″ 31 spline Trac Loc positraction
    • Includes two side gears, two pinion gears, cross pin shaft, cross pin bolt and spider gear thrust washers.
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    Motive Gear – Differential Ring and Pinion (Part No.F7.5-410)

    Differential Ring and Pinion

    from

    $233.99


    Product Features:
    • FRD 10BL 7.5 R/P 4.10 MG
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    Motive Gear – Differential Pinion Nut (Part No.379570S)

    Differential Pinion Nut

    from

    $6.99
    All Motive Gear products are engineered for their specific application and manufactured in state of the art facilities. All of our products undergo rigid quality control processes to insure proper fit, performance and longevity. Motive Gear products can be found in the winners circle at NHRA, IHRA, NMRA, NMCA, SODA, SCORE, BITD, Ultra-4 and NASCAR events because we offer unmatched selection and quality demanded by racers and their crew chiefs – the same quality and selection demanded by DIY customers and top mechanics. With four warehouses strategically located across North America, most Motive Gear orders arrive within 2-4 days. Win with Motive Gear!
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    Dorman – Help – Differential Shaft Lock Bolt (Part No.81048)

    Differential Shaft Lock Bolt

    from

    $6.79
    This differential pinion shaft lock bolt is designed to match the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance.

    Product Features:
    • Direct replacement – this differential pinion shaft lock bolt matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
    • Ideal solution – this bolt is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
    • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
    • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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    Yukon Gear – Super Carrier Shim Kit For Ford 7.5", GM 7.5", 8.2" & 8.5" (Part No.55001)

    Super Carrier Shim Kit For Ford 7.5", GM 7.5", 8.2" & 8.5"

    from

    $59.99
    Product Features:
    • Super carrier shim kit for Ford 7.5″, GM 7.5″, 7.625″, 7.6″ IFS, 7.6″ IRS, 7.75″, 8.2″, 8.2″ Buick, Oldsmobile and Pontiac and GM 8.5″ front and rear
    • Interlocking design makes installation much easier
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    Yukon Gear – 8.8" Ford 3/4" Notched Cross Pin Shaft (0.750", ’85 And Older) (Part No.33432)

    8.8" Ford 3/4" Notched Cross Pin Shaft (0.750", '85 And Older)

    from

    $78.99
    8.8″ Ford 3/4″ Notched cross pin shaft (0.750″, ’85 and older). This cross pin shaft is not compatible with Powertrax Lock Rights or Spartan Lockers.

    Product Features:
    • Cross pin shaft
    • Fits Ford 8.8″
    • 0.750″ diameter
    • Notched
    • Not compatible with Spartan Lockers or Lock Rights
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    Yukon Gear – 8.5" & 8.2" GM Carrier Installation Kit (Part No.57008)

    8.5" & 8.2" GM Carrier Installation Kit

    from

    $109.99
    Yukon Carrier installation kits are great, low cost kit for carrier changes such as Positraction or locker upgrades. Carrier installation kit for GM 8.2″ & 8.5″ differential. This kit contains carrier bearings, races and shims.

    Product Features:
    • Fits GM 7.5″, 7.625″ 8.2″ and 8.5″
    • Includes carrier bearings and races and “super” carrier shim kit
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    National – Shaft Repair Sleeve (Part No.99181)

    Shaft Repair Sleeve

    from

    $37.99
    National has built a reputation as one of the most respected names in the industry. We have offered premium sealing solutions for more than 75 years. Our design team keeps pace with the industry and provides advanced solutions for today’s vehicles.

    Product Features:
    • Designed to repair damaged, grooved or worn shafts
    • Durable stainless steel construction for corrosion-free sealing surface that surpasses most original shaft specifications
    • Ideal for a shaft where indications of seal wear, such as tracks or grooves have developed
    • Ultra-thin construction (0.01/0.25mm wall thickness) allows original seal size to be used with minimal additional lip loading
    • Easy to install with removable flange and installation tool
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    Pro-King – Differential Internal Nest Kit (Part No.762B717A)

    Differential Internal Nest Kit

    from

    $99.99
    Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

    Product Features:
    • All products are designed to meet or exceed OE quality, form, fit and funtion.
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    Yukon Gear – Grizzly Locker For Ford 9" With 31 Spline Axles, Racing Design (Part No.28010)

    Grizzly Locker For Ford 9" With 31 Spline Axles, Racing Design

    from

    $1183.99
    The Yukon Grizzly Locker is the ultimate in locking differentials for street, off-road, & drag racing. Grizzly Lockers provide 100% power to both tires, while still allowing for disengagement while negotiating turns. This unit requires the use of a 3.250″ dropout. Use carrier bearing/race numbers LM104949/LM104911. The Yukon Grizzly locker uses 8620 internals and a patented design to provide maximum strength and reduce common failures. Assembled in the USA! This unit has been approved for competition in NASCAR National & Touring series. This is a race unit designed for extreme off road use or racing. All Grizzly Lockers are backed by the best warranty in the business! Yukon covers the replacement unit and covers any collaterally damaged parts and associated labor, up to $2,000! This locker also fits 9.5″ & 10″ dropouts.

    Product Features:
    • Fits Ford 9″ with 31 spline axles
    • Patented internal design reduces common locker failures
    • 8620 internals for added strength
    • Assembled in the USA
    • Aggressive design for racing applications only
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    Motive Gear – Differential Gear Install Kit (Part No.F9IKN)

    Differential Gear Install Kit

    from

    $46.49
    All Motive Gear products are engineered for their specific application and manufactured in state of the art facilities. All of our products undergo rigid quality control processes to insure proper fit, performance and longevity. Motive Gear products can be found in the winners circle at NHRA, IHRA, NMRA, NMCA, SODA, SCORE, BITD, Ultra-4 and NASCAR events because we offer unmatched selection and quality demanded by racers and their crew chiefs – the same quality and selection demanded by DIY customers and top mechanics. With four warehouses strategically located across North America, most Motive Gear orders arrive within 2-4 days. Win with Motive Gear!
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    Yukon Gear – Pinion Install Kit For Ford 7.5" Differential (Part No.13039)

    Pinion Install Kit For Ford 7.5" Differential

    from

    $184.99
    Yukon Pinion installation kits are a terrific solution for gear installation on lower mileage vehicles where the carrier bearings & races can be reused. This kit uses Timken bearings and races along with a high quality pinion seal and small parts. Included in this kit are the pinion bearings and races, pilot bearing (if applicable), crush sleeve (if applicable), complete pinion shim kit, thread locker, and marking compound with brush. Yukon does extensive research for each application to make sure your kit will arrive with all the correct parts you need to install your pinion gear.

    Product Features:
    • Fits Ford 7.5″
    • Included are pinion bearings and races, pinion seal, pinion nut, crush sleeve, complete pinion shim kit, and marking compound with brush.
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    Mobil 1 – 75W-90 Full Synthetic Gear Lubricant, Extends Gear Life, 1 Quart (Part No.26101)

    75W-90 Full Synthetic Gear Lubricant, Extends Gear Life, 1 Quart

    from

    $19.99
    Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Lubricant LS 75W-90 is a supreme, multi-purpose automotive gear lubricant that helps to provide exceptional thermal stability and resistance to high temperature oxidation, extending gear life due to minimal deposits. Helps to deliver outstanding protection against low speed/high torque wear with the capability to handle severe driving conditions while delivering smooth efficient performance. Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Lubricant LS provides exceptional shear stability, corrosion protection, and enhanced frictional properties. Compared to conventional hypoid gear lubricants, Mobil 1 LS 75W-90 performs exceptionally over a wide range of temperatures to reduce wear at start up. Mobil 1 gear lube helps to minimize leakage and reduce contamination while providing good resistance to foaming to maintain film strength for reliable lubrication. Meets or exceeds the requirements of the following industry specifications: API GL-5.

    Product Features:
    • Mobil 1 LS synthetic automotive gear lubricant exceeds the highest level of performance requirements of modern passenger vehicles
    • Helps to provide exceptional thermal stability and resistance to high temperature oxidation and extend gear life due to minimal deposits
    • Delivers outstanding protection against low speed/high torque wear, handling severe driving conditions with smooth, efficient performance
    • Compared to conventional hypoid gear lubricants, performs exceptionally over a wide range of temperatures to reduce wear at start up
    • Provides exceptional shear stability, corrosion protection, and enhanced frictional properties
    • Manufacturer Part Number: 104361
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    Yukon Gear – Pinion Seal For 7.5", 8.8", And 9.75" Ford, And Also 1985-’86 9" Ford (Part No.30037)

    Pinion Seal For 7.5", 8.8", And 9.75" Ford, And Also 1985-'86 9" Ford

    from

    $8.99
    Pinion seal for 7.5″, 8.8″, and 9.75″ Ford, and also 1985-’86 9″ Ford.Yukon Mighty seal.

    Product Features:
    • Pinion seal
    • Fits Ford 7.5″, 8.8″ and some 9.75″
    • 2.785″ O.D.
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    National – Tapered Roller Bearing Cone (Part No.HM89443)

    Tapered Roller Bearing Cone

    from

    $38.99
    Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing cones feature crowned raceways and rollers to ensure even load distribution.

    Product Features:
    • PREMIUM MATERIALS – Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
    • SMOOTH ROTATION – Crowned raceways and rollers for even load distribution
    • OE-STYLE DESIGN – Engineered to meet OE specifications
    • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE – Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
    • RIGOROUS TESTING – Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
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    National – Bearing Race (Part No.02820)

    Bearing Race

    from

    $12.29
    National Oil Seals & Bearings offer a full line of premium oil seals and bearings.

    Product Features:
    • Premium bearing design matches OEM specifications
    • Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
    • Crowned raceways and rollers to ensure even load distribution for maximum life
    • Industry leading coverage
    • Professional technicians know they can depend on National
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    Most Popular Rear Differential Cover Gaskets for 1981 Ford Thunderbirds

    Enhance your 1981 Ford Thunderbird with one of the 2 Rear Differential Cover Gaskets we have in stock, starting at just $4.99.

    Yukon Gear – 7.5" Ford Cover Gasket (Part No.23009)

    7.5" Ford Cover Gasket

    from

    $9.99
    7.5″ Ford cover gasket.

    Product Features:
    • Cover gasket
    • Fits Ford 7.5″
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    Pro-King – Differential Cover Gasket (Part No.762B303)

    Differential Cover Gasket

    from

    $4.99
    Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

    Product Features:
    • All products are designed to meet or exceed OE quality, form, fit and funtion.
    See More

    Best-Selling 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differential Bearings

    Upgrade your Thunderbird with one of our 5 best-selling Differential Bearings, earning an average 4 stars rating across 4 reviews.

    National – Bearing Race (Part No.LM501314)

    Bearing Race

    from

    $9.29
    Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing cups feature crowned raceways to ensure even load distribution.

    Product Features:
    • PREMIUM MATERIALS – Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
    • SMOOTH ROTATION – Crowned raceways for even load distribution
    • OE-STYLE DESIGN – Engineered to meet OE specifications
    • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE – Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
    • RIGOROUS TESTING – Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
    See More

    National – Tapered Roller Bearing Cone (Part No.LM501349)

    Tapered Roller Bearing Cone

    from

    $19.99
    Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing cones feature crowned raceways and rollers to ensure even load distribution.

    Product Features:
    • PREMIUM MATERIALS – Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
    • SMOOTH ROTATION – Crowned raceways and rollers for even load distribution
    • OE-STYLE DESIGN – Engineered to meet OE specifications
    • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE – Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
    • RIGOROUS TESTING – Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
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    FAG US – Bearing – TRB (Tapered Roller Bearing) (Part No.KT17)

    Bearing - TRB (Tapered Roller Bearing)

    from

    $19.49
    With advanced load-carrying capacity and compact design, tapered roller bearings are used in wheel bearings, transmissions, differentials, transfer cases and other miscellanous applications. FAG manufacturers over 100 million tapered roller bearings annually.

    Product Features:
    • High-precision and High-quality components used in all KITs
    • Coverage of classic and new high-tech solutions for the best system coverage
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    FAG US – Cup (Part No.M88010)

    Cup

    from

    $11.29
    With advanced load-carrying capacity and compact design, tapered roller bearings are used in wheel bearings, transmissions, differentials, transfer cases and other miscellanous applications. FAG manufacturers over 100 million tapered roller bearings annually.

    Product Features:
    • High-precision and High-quality components used in all KITs
    • Coverage of classic and new high-tech solutions for the best system coverage
    See More

    Yukon Gear – Cross Pin Bolt (Part No.33067)

    Cross Pin Bolt

    from

    $6.99
    Cross pin bolt for Chrysler 8.25″, 9.25″ rear, Ford 7.5″, 8.8″, GM 12 bolt car & truck, 7.2″ IFs, 7.5″, 7.6″, 8.0″, 8.25″ IFS & 8.5″.

    Product Features:
    • Cross pin bolt for Chrysler 8.25″ and 9.25″ rear, Ford 7.5″ and 8.8″, GM 12 botl car and truck, 8.5″, 8.25″ IFS, 8.0″, 7.625″, 7.5″ and 7.2″ IFS
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    Top-Quality Differential Covers for 1981 Ford Thunderbirds

    Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Differential Cover for Ford Thunderbirds and enjoy top-notch performance from $42.99.

    Yukon Gear – DiffrlCover (Part No.32364)

    DiffrlCover

    from

    $99.99
    DiffrlCover

    Yukon Gear – Chrome Cover For 7.5" Ford (Part No.32008)

    Chrome Cover For 7.5" Ford

    from

    $42.99
    Chrome cover for 7.5″ Ford.

    Product Features:
    • Fits Ford 7.5″
    • Chrome
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    Spectre – Differential Cover (Part No.6073)

    Differential Cover

    from

    $52.99
    Spectre’s Differential Covers are made to OEM specifications and are triple chrome plated for a lasting shine. Designed to protect the intricate moving parts of the differential, Spectre’s covers add an extra layer of protection to the vehicle’s underside. Featuring a 10-bolt design and fits the following vehicles with 7.5 inch ring gears: 1979-2003 Ford Mustang/Capri V8, 1982-2003 Ford Ranger, 1984-1997 Ford Aerostar, 1982-1992 Ford Bronco II, and 1994-2003 Mazda 2300/3000 differentials. Includes 10 SAE standard chrome bolts for installation. You’ll need to supply your own bolts if your application requires metric bolts.

    Product Features:
    • 10 chrome 5/16 inch -18 x 3/4 inch differential cover bolts
    • 10-bolt design
    • Triple chrome plated for a lasting shine
    • Precision engineered for a perfect fit
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    Our Top Pick for a 1981 Ford Thunderbird Rear Housing Cover Gasket

    Invest in a durable Rear Housing Cover Gasket for your 1981 Ford, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

    Felpro – Axle Housing Cover Gasket Oval Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket (Part No.RDS 55393)

    Axle Housing Cover Gasket Oval Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket

    from

    $7.49
    Fel-Pro® gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.

    Product Features:
    • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
    • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
    • Engineered for the sealing repair environment
    • Validated for fit, form and function
    • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
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    Differential Oil for 1981 Ford Thunderbirds

    Make a smart move for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird with products all priced from $99.99 to $148.99.

    Yukon Gear – Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil With Positraction Additive – 4 Quarts (Part No.15005)

    Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil With Positraction Additive - 4 Quarts

    from

    $148.99
    Redline Synthetic “Shock Proof” Oil with positraction Additive. 4 Quarts.

    Product Features:
    • Includes four quarts of Redline Shockproof oil and one 4oz bottle of Yukon positraction additive
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    Yukon Gear – Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil – 3 Quarts (Part No.15000)

    Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil - 3 Quarts

    from

    $99.99
    Redline Synthetic “Shock Proof” Oil. 3 Quarts.

    Product Features:
    • Includes three quarts of Redline Shockproof oil
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    Yukon Gear – Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil – 4 Quarts (Part No.15004)

    Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil - 4 Quarts

    from

    $137.99
    Redline Synthetic “Shock Proof” Oil. 4 Quarts.

    Product Features:
    • Includes four quarts of Redline Shockproof oil
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    Top-Rated Differential Brands For Your 1981 Ford Thunderbird

    When it comes to finding the perfect Differential for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird, Advance Auto Parts has you covered with a wide selection of high-quality OEM and aftermarket options from 14 trusted brands. We carry the most popular Differential brands including Powertrax, National, and Motive Gear, and more, all known for their exceptional customer ratings (average brand rating of 4.7 stars) and competitive prices, as low as $6.99. Purchasing a Differential from us here at Advance Auto Parts is a smart move for both you and your 1981 Ford Thunderbird, providing peace of mind with parts that meet or exceed OEM standards.

    Popular Powertrax 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials

    If you’re looking for a top-quality Differential for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird, Advance Auto Parts has exactly what you need with our selection of Powertrax Differentials. We have 1 Powertrax Differentials in stock for this fitment, all known for their durability and precision fit. With prices starting at just $444.99, you’ll find the perfect Differential for your needs and budget. Powertrax Differentials for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird come highly rated, with over 1 customer reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.7 stars. Choosing a Powertrax Differential from Advance Auto Parts is a smart move to ensure quality and value for your vehicle.
    Lock Right Locker
    from $444.99
    (1)
    Lock Right Locker
    “Fast service and the right part.”

    Top-Quality National 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials

    For those in search of a high-quality Differential for their 1981 Ford Thunderbird, Advance Auto Parts offers a great selection of National Differentials. With 3 National Differentials in stock, you can trust you’re getting top-tier parts designed for durability and a perfect fit. Prices for these Differentials start at just $7.99, with an average price of $18.42, giving you a range of options to suit your budget. Backed by over 7 customer ratings and an average rating of 4.3 stars, National Differentials provide both reliability and excellent performance. Choosing a National Differential from Advance Auto Parts is a smart investment in your vehicle’s performance and longevity.
    Bearing Race
    from $7.99
    (4)
    Bearing Race
    “Goes with M88010 bearing cup. Application was the pinion bearing race for a Ford 9 Inch on a 1957 Ford F-100.”
    Bearing Race
    from $9.29
    (2)
    Bearing Race
    “Reasonable price and woks well. front diff 2006 Escalade esv”
    Shaft Repair Sleeve
    from $37.99
    (1)
    Shaft Repair Sleeve
    “Very delicate piece, but came shipped quite safely and not damaged. High quality.”

    FAQs for 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials

    What are the best-selling Differentials for 1981 Ford Thunderbirds?

    Out of 99 Differentials that fit 1981 Ford Thunderbirds, the following parts are the top sellers:

    What’s the price range for 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials?

    The prices of Differentials for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird range from $1.29 up to $883.99 for the most premium parts.

    What is the average price of a Differential for a 1981 Ford Thunderbird?

    The average price for Differentials for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird is $143.50. Keep in mind the variety of part types within our Differential category, where you are likely to find a wide range of prices across a variety of parts and components.

    Does Advance Auto Parts sell Differentials for other Ford Thunderbird model years?

    Yes, we carry Differentials for 45 model years of Ford Thunderbirds between 1955 and 2005. The following model years are the most popular for Differential purchases: 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994, and 1993.

    What are the cheapest Differentials for my 1981 Ford Thunderbird?

    The cheapest 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials we carry are:

    Does Advance Auto Parts sell Differentials for any other 1981 Ford models?

    Yes. We stock Differentials for 25 other popular 1981 Ford models. Some of the most popular are 1981 Mustang Differentials, 1981 E-250 Econoline Differentials, 1981 E-350 Econoline Differentials, 1981 E-150 Econoline Differentials, and 1981 Bronco Differentials.

    What are the top-rated Differentials that fit the 1981 Ford Thunderbird?

    The one 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differential we have in stock is the Differential Ring Gear Bolt. It costs $1.29.

    What types of Differentials do you sell for my 1981 Ford Thunderbird?

    As of 11/2/25, these are some of the most in-demand types of Differentials for a 1981 Ford Thunderbird:

    Can I get help with 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differential orders?

    Contact our customer support team by chat or phone, through the help desk page, where you can find instant answers about Ford Differentials and more.

    What is your return policy for Ford Thunderbird Differentials?

    Advance Auto Parts keeps returns simple. For new Ford Thunderbird Differentials and accessories, your online orders can be returned, in their original condition, within 45 days. For requirements, see the returns page.