1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials

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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 Driveworks. For example, National Differentials start at just $11.99 with an average 4.3 star rating. Motive Gear and Driveworks offer similar pricing and quality, backed by strong customer feedback. With over 231 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 $133.06, with a range that starts at $1.29 and goes up to $883.99. With 100 options in stock from 14 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like 3 Qt – 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil with Posi Additive, Differential Shaft Lock Bolt, and 3 Qt – Penzoil 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil start at just $6.79 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 – Carrier Bearing Puller Set (Part No.56034)

Carrier Bearing Puller Set

from

$689.99
Yukon Gear & Axle offers a full line of top quality differential tools to save time and money.

Product Features:
  • Not compatible with Dana 70HD, Dana 80, Ford 10.25″ and 10.5″ or GM and Chrysler 11.5″ 1-ton applications
  • Works with an impact gun to safely and easily remove carrier bearings
  • Comes with a handy bench-top stand
  • For 1-ton applications shop Yukon part YT P22
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National – Multi-Purpose Seal (Part No.3604)

Multi-Purpose Seal

from

$13.29
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:
  • Design type: spring loaded; multi-lip
  • Temperature range: -40 Deg. F to 400 Deg. F / -40 Deg. C to 204 Deg. C
  • Excellent high temperature capabilities
  • Compatible with wide range of fluids
  • Delivers quality and reliable performance for every type of repair
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Yukon Gear – Pinion Gear and Thrust Washer (0.875" Shaft) for 8.8" Ford (Part No.33299)

Pinion Gear and Thrust Washer (0.875" Shaft) for 8.8" Ford

from

$11.99
Yukon Gear & Axle manufactures a full line of top quality small parts to complete any job including ring gear bolts, crush sleeves, pinion nuts and washers, axle studs, thrust washers and much, much more. For all your differential small parts needs, look no further than Yukon.

Product Features:
  • Pinion gear thrust washer for Ford 8.8″
  • 0.875″ diameter cross pin shaft applications only
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Pro-King – Differential Cross Shaft (Part No.742G930)

Differential Cross Shaft

from

$2.99
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
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Motive Gear – PRO Gear Lightweight Differential Ring And Pinion – Small Pinion (Part No.F990543SP)

PRO Gear Lightweight Differential Ring And Pinion - Small Pinion

from

$441.99


Product Features:
  • R&P FORD 9″ 5.43, 9310 SMALL PIN 28 SPL. PRO
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Yukon Gear – Trac Loc Internals for 8" & 9" Ford, 31 Spline, Includes Hub & Clutches (Part No.16027)

Trac Loc Internals for 8" & 9" Ford, 31 Spline, Includes Hub & Clutches

from

$487.99
Yukon Gear & Axle clutch kits fit popular Ford diffs outfitted with a Trac Loc style positraction unit feature stout clutch plates, ensuring total traction and long-lasting performance.

Product Features:
  • Spider gear kit
  • Fits Ford 9″ with Trac Loc positraction with 31 spline axles
  • Includes two side gears, four pinion gears, cross pin shaft, clutch hub, roll pin and spider gear thrust washers.
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USA Standard Gear – Differential Rebuild Kit (Part No.37033)

Differential Rebuild Kit

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 – 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 a convenient and low-cost solution for carrier changes in cases where one is upgrading to a positraction limited slip differential, a mechanical locker, or an air operated locker. These kits contain carrier bearings and races and a carrier shim kit.

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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Dorman – Differential Pinion Yoke Assembly (Part No.697-527)

Differential Pinion Yoke Assembly

from

$177.99
Worn or damaged differential end yoke causing driveline Vibrations- This direct replacement end yoke matches the original equipment part for a trustworthy repair and reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this differential end yoke matches the fit and construction of the original yoke
  • Excellent value – this replacement end yoke offers original equipment quality at a fraction of the price of dealer parts
  • Quality materials – this end yoke is machined from cast iron for strength and is precision machined for reliability
  • Validated fit – this differential end yoke has been tested to confirm accurate fit
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Yukon Gear – Ford OEM Steel Differential Cover (Part No.32364)

Ford OEM Steel Differential Cover

from

$99.99
These Yukon replacement diff covers are a direct bolt-on.
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Yukon Gear – Grizzly Locker For Ford 9" With 28 Spline Axles (Part No.28008)

Grizzly Locker For Ford 9" With 28 Spline Axles

from

$947.99
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. The Yukon Grizzly locker uses 8620 internals and a patented design to provide maximum strength and reduce common failures. Assembled in the USA! 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 28 spline axles
  • Patented internal design reduces common locker failures
  • 8620 internals for added strength
  • Assembled in the USA
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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
Yukon shim kits are precision machined and tailored for each individual application to ensure you have the right shims for every set up.

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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Royal Purple – HMX 5W-30 High Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil, Restores Engine Performance, 5 Quart (Part No.11748)

HMX 5W-30 High Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil, Restores Engine Performance, 5 Quart

from

$66.99
Royal Purple HMX SAE 5W-30 High-Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 quart is specifically designed to minimize wear and restore lost performance in engines with more than 75,000 miles. Formulated with robust zinc/phosphorus anti-wear compounds combined with Royal Purple’s proprietary additive technology Synerlec, HMX is chemically enhanced to revitalize hardened seals, reducing oil consumption common in high-mileage engines. In addition, HMX is fortified with stout detergents to remove engine build-up and deposits, maintain cleanliness and promote engine longevity. 

Product Features:
  • Specifically designed to minimize wear and restore lost performance in engines with more than 75,000 miles
  • Formulated with robust zinc/phosphorus anti-wear compounds combined with Royal Purple’s proprietary additive technology
  • HMX is chemically enhanced to revitalize hardened seals, reducing oil consumption common in high-mileage engines
  • Reduces friction and metal-to-metal contact for peak engine performance
  • Also provides outstanding oxidation resistance to safely extend oil drain intervals, and an ionic attraction to metal surfaces, providing protection and minimizing wear at start-up
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Felpro – Axle Housing Cover Gasket Round Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket (Part No.RDS 55460)

Axle Housing Cover Gasket Round Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket

from

$8.99
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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Yukon Gear – Trac Loc Friction Plate, Single Sided, 4 Tab (Part No.16179)

Trac Loc Friction Plate, Single Sided, 4 Tab

from

$29.99
Yukon Gear & Axle manufactures a full line of top-quality small parts to complete any job including ring gear bolts, crush sleeves, pinion nuts and washers, axle studs, thrust washers, and other general maintenance items. You can count on Yukon to fulfill all your differential small parts needs.

Product Features:
  • Friction plate
  • Fits Ford 8″ and 9″ Trac Loc
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Yukon Gear – Trac Loc Spring Plate for Ford 9" & 8 (Part No.33517)

Trac Loc Spring Plate for Ford 9" & 8

from

$10.99
Yukon Gear & Axle manufactures a full line of top quality small parts to complete any job including ring gear bolts, crush sleeves, pinion nuts and washers, axle studs, thrust washers and much, much more. For all your differential small parts needs, look no further than Yukon.

Product Features:
  • Trac Loc spring plate for Ford 8″ and 9″
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Yukon Gear – Cross Pin Shaft (0.875") for ’86 and Newer 8.8" Ford (Part No.33331)

Cross Pin Shaft (0.875") for '86 and Newer 8.8" Ford

from

$42.99
Yukon Gear & Axle manufactures a full line of top quality small parts to complete any job including ring gear bolts, crush sleeves, pinion nuts and washers, axle studs, thrust washers and much, much more. For all your differential small parts needs, look no further than Yukon.

Product Features:
  • Cross pin shaft for Ford 8.8″
  • 0.875″ diameter
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Yukon Gear – Pinion Install Kit for Ford Daytona 9" Differential (Part No.13049)

Pinion Install Kit for Ford Daytona 9" Differential

from

$225.99
Yukon Pinion Installation Kits are a terrific solution for gear installation on lower mileage vehicles where the carrier bearings and races can be reused. This kit features Timken bearings and races along with high-quality seals and small parts. Yukon does extensive research for each application to make sure your kit will arrive with all the correct parts you need to install your gear set.

Product Features:
  • Fits Ford 9″ with Daytona pinion support
  • Included are pinion bearings and races, pinion seal, crush sleeve eliminator , complete pinion shim kit, and marking compound with brush.
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Motive Gear – Differential Pinion Bearing Spacer (Part No.SS9)

Differential Pinion Bearing Spacer

from

$45.99
Motive Gear offers some of the toughest drive train components on the market today. If you are looking for the largest line of performance ring and pinion gear options available with gear sets in a wide range of ratios for nearly every application, both on and off-road, check out Motive Gear. Motive Gear products can be found in the winner’s circle at racing events worldwide. The superior quality of Motive Gear components is the result of years of racing development, outstanding design and state-of-the-art manufacturing methods. Extensive testing is performed on all products by our in-house engineers.
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Yukon Gear – Outer Oil Slinger For Ford 7.5", 8.8", 9", 10.25" (Part No.33022)

Outer Oil Slinger For Ford 7.5", 8.8", 9", 10.25"

from

$8.99
Replacement outer oil slinger for Ford 7.5″, 8.8″, 9″, 10.25″, Nissan Titan rear, Dana 44 Rubicon & 44 JK non-Rubicon.

Product Features:
  • Outer oil slinger for Ford 10.25″, 7.5″, 8.8″ and 9″ also Jeep JK and Nissan Titan rear
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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
See More

Powertrax – Differential Lock Assembly (Part No.9206902800)

Differential Lock Assembly

from

$551.99
For vehicles that are driven daily, the Power Trax 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 Power Trax No-Slip locker easily installs in to your differential carrier using basic tools and without affecting your ring and pinion settings. Power Trax Grip-Lok, Lock-Right Lockers and No-Slip Traction Systems automatically provide 100% traction on-demand, under the toughest circumstances. The Power Trax Grip-Pro and Grip-LS performance limited slips offer smooth dependable torque transfer and traction for the best of both worlds.

Product Features:
  • The Power Trax Lock-Right Locker provides outstanding traction for off-road machines and race vehicles. Power Trax No-Slip Traction Systems deliver excellent performance to street-driven cars and trucks.
  • Power Trax lockers range from the original, Lock-Right for serious straight-line performance, to the No-Slip traction system for street-able vehicles.
  • Power Trax 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.
  • Power Trax ia an Extreme Traction System
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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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Motive Gear – Differential Crush Sleeve (Part No.B7A4662A)

Differential Crush Sleeve

from

$3.99
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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Driveworks – Tapered Roller Bearing (Part No.S-M-802048)

Tapered Roller Bearing

from

$17.49
Product Features:
  • Brand may vary by location
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Pro-King – Differential Pinion Shim Kit (Part No.742G202)

Differential Pinion Shim Kit

from

$6.99
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
See More

Powertrax – Differential Lock Assembly (Part No.1810-LR)

Differential Lock Assembly

from

$339.99
For vehicles that are driven daily, the Power Trax 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 Power Trax No-Slip locker easily installs in to your differential carrier using basic tools and without affecting your ring and pinion settings. Power Trax Grip-Lok, Lock-Right Lockers and No-Slip Traction Systems automatically provide 100% traction on-demand, under the toughest circumstances. The Power Trax Grip-Pro and Grip-LS performance limited slips offer smooth dependable torque transfer and traction for the best of both worlds.

Product Features:
  • The Power Trax Lock-Right Locker provides outstanding traction for off-road machines and race vehicles. Power Trax No-Slip Traction Systems deliver excellent performance to street-driven cars and trucks.
  • Power Trax lockers range from the original, Lock-Right for serious straight-line performance, to the No-Slip traction system for street-able vehicles.
  • Power Trax 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.
  • Power Trax ia an Extreme Traction System
See More

Yukon Gear – 9" Ford Pinion Nut, 35 Spline Large Pinion Oversize (Part No.33161)

9" Ford Pinion Nut, 35 Spline Large Pinion Oversize

from

$26.99
Yukon Gear & Axle manufactures a full line of top quality small parts to complete any job including ring gear bolts, crush sleeves, pinion nuts and washers, axle studs, thrust washers and much, much more. For all your differential small parts needs, look no further than Yukon.

Product Features:
  • Pinion nut
  • Fits Ford 9″ with 35 spline pinion
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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:
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
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Best-Selling 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differential Bearings

Upgrade your Thunderbird with one of our 8 best-selling Differential Bearings, earning an average 4.38 stars rating across 14 reviews.

National – Bearing Race (Part No.LM501314)

Bearing Race

from

$11.99
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
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Driveworks – Taper Bearing Cone (Part No.S-LM-501349)

Taper Bearing Cone

from

$10.99
Value-priced bearing meets all cataloged application requirements.

Product Features:
  • Brand may vary by location
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National – Multi-Purpose Bearing (Part No.A-17)

Multi-Purpose Bearing

from

$17.99
Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing sets feature crowned raceways and rollers to ensure even load distribution.

Product Features:
  • CONSISTENT PERFORMANCE: Matched cup and cone components ensure consistent performance
  • 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 – Tapered Roller Bearing Cone (Part No.LM501349)

Tapered Roller Bearing Cone

from

$21.99
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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Schaeffler – Bearing – CRB (Cylindrical Roller Bearing) (Part No.FC67147)

Bearing - CRB (Cylindrical Roller Bearing)

from

$30.99
We develop and produce high-quality roller bearings, spherical bearings, and plain bearings worldwide for a wide range of applications.

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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Schaeffler – Cone (Part No.KL68149)

Cone

from

$12.99
Our wheel seals are engineered using only the highest-quality materials to meet vehicle manufacturer specificatons. We work with suppliers to design seals that meet FAG’s quality standards. Seals are designed to protect wheel end components from contamination – such as dirt, dust, and moisture – and prevent the loss of grease over the life of the bearing. The specifications for wheel seals are very demanding, and the type required depends on the specific application, position and vehicle class.

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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Schaeffler – Cup (Part No.M88010)

Cup

from

$10.99
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
Yukon Gear & Axle manufactures a full line of top quality small parts to complete any job including ring gear bolts, crush sleeves, pinion nuts and washers, axle studs, thrust washers and much, much more. For all your differential small parts needs, look no further than Yukon.

Product Features:
  • Cross pin bolt for Chrysler 8.25″ and 9.25″ rear, Ford 7.5″ and 8.8″, GM 12 bolt 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 – Ford OEM Steel Differential Cover (Part No.32364)

Ford OEM Steel Differential Cover

from

$99.99
These Yukon replacement diff covers are a direct bolt-on.
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Yukon Gear – Chrome Cover for 7.5" Ford (Part No.32008)

Chrome Cover for 7.5" Ford

from

$42.99
These Yukon replacement diff covers take your rig a step beyond the boring factory look. They are the stock OE design finished in chrome.

Product Features:
  • Fits Ford 7.5″
  • Chrome
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Top Picks for 1981 Ford Thunderbird Rear Housing Cover Gaskets

Invest in one of our 2 durable Rear Housing Cover Gaskets 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
See More

Victor Reinz – Axle Housing Cover Gasket (Part No.71-14838-00)

Axle Housing Cover Gasket

from

$7.49
Product Features:
  • Choosing Victor Reinz assures getting OE quality parts in gaskets sets that have the coverage, contents, packaging and electronic cataloging to best meet the needs of the aftermarket.
  • Dana engineering-approved for fit, form and function
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
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Differential Oil for 1981 Ford Thunderbirds

Make a smart move for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird with products all priced from $44.99 to $148.99.

Yukon Gear – 3 Qt – 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil with Posi Additive (Part No.15003)

3 Qt - 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil with Posi Additive

from

$57.99
Union 76 gear oil is a conventional non-synthetic 80W90 formulation designed for all types of differentials. This kit includes three quarts of oil and a bottle of Yukon Limited Slip Friction modifier that reduces noise and chatter in clutch driven positraction units and limited slip differentials.

Product Features:
  • Includes three quarts of conventional oil and one 4oz bottle of Yukon positraction additive
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Yukon Gear – 3 Qt – Penzoil 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil (Part No.15002)

3 Qt - Penzoil 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil

from

$44.99
Union 76 gear oil is a conventional non-synthetic 80W90 formulation designed for all types of differentials.

Product Features:
  • Includes three quarts of conventional oil
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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 Heavy Shockproof Gear Oil is formulated to provide lasting protection. This kit includes four quarts of oil and a bottle of Yukon Limited Slip Friction modifier that reduces noise and chatter in clutch driven positraction units and limited slip differentials.

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 Heavy Shockproof Gear Oil is formulated to provide lasting protection.

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 Heavy Shockproof Gear Oil is formulated to provide lasting protection.

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 National, Driveworks, and Motive Gear, and more, all known for their exceptional customer ratings (average brand rating of 4.3 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 National 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 National Differentials. We have 3 National Differentials in stock for this fitment, all known for their durability and precision fit. With prices starting at just $11.99 and an average cost of $23.99, you’ll find the perfect Differential for your needs and budget. National Differentials for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird come highly rated, with over 10 customer reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.3 stars. Choosing a National Differential from Advance Auto Parts is a smart move to ensure quality and value for your vehicle.
Shaft Repair Sleeve
from $41.99
(1)
Shaft Repair Sleeve
“Very delicate piece, but came shipped quite safely and not damaged. High quality.”
Bearing Race
from $11.99
(2)
Bearing Race
“Reasonable price and woks well. front diff 2006 Escalade esv”
Multi-Purpose Bearing
from $17.99
(7)
Multi-Purpose Bearing
“Comparable with the Timkens I removed. NATIONAL bearings have lasted decades in many of my other machines.”

Top-Quality Driveworks 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 Driveworks Differentials. With 1 Driveworks 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 $10.99, giving you a range of options to suit your budget. Backed by over 3 customer ratings and an average rating of 4.2 stars, Driveworks Differentials provide both reliability and excellent performance. Choosing a Driveworks Differential from Advance Auto Parts is a smart investment in your vehicle’s performance and longevity.
Taper Bearing Cone
from $10.99
(3)
Taper Bearing Cone
“Worked for my 2006 escalade esv front diff”

FAQs for 1981 Ford Thunderbird Differentials

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

Out of 100 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 $133.06. 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 18 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 types of Differentials do you sell for my 1981 Ford Thunderbird?

As of 6/2/26, 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.