1981 Mercury Cougar Differentials

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Keep Your 1981 Mercury Cougar in Top Shape with Quality Differentials

Whether you’re repairing or upgrading your Differential, using high-quality parts is key to keeping your 1981 Mercury Cougar looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Differential Oil, Differential Carrier Bearing Set, 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 Motive Gear, Driveworks, and National. For example, Motive Gear Differentials start at just $6.99 with an average 4.1 star rating. Driveworks and National offer similar pricing and quality, backed by strong customer feedback. With over 180 reviews and a solid 4.6 star average, you can shop with confidence knowing other Mercury Cougar owners approve.

Competitive Prices and Extensive Inventory

The average price for a 1981 Mercury Cougar Differential at Advance Auto Parts is around $218.38, with a range that starts at $1.29 and goes up to $1,115.99. With 148 options in stock from 15 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like Dorman – Help Differential Shaft Lock Bolt, 81048, Yukon Gear 3 Qt – Penzoil 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil, 15002, and "Yukon Gear Cover Bolt For Ford 7.5"", 8.8"" & 9.75"", 33554" 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 Mercury Cougar in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1981 Mercury Cougar Differentials

Motive Gear – Motive Gear Differential Spool, FS9-28LW (Part No.FS9-28LW)

Motive Gear Differential Spool, FS9-28LW

from

$149.99
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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Pro-King – Pro-King Differential Cross Shaft, 742G930 (Part No.742G930)

Pro-King Differential Cross Shaft, 742G930

from

$2.99
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.
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Driveworks – Driveworks Taper Bearing Set, S-A-5 (Part No.S-A-5)

Driveworks Taper Bearing Set, S-A-5

from

$11.99
Value-priced bearing meets all cataloged application requirements.
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Dorman – Dorman Differential Clutch Kit, 697-780 (Part No.697-780)

Dorman Differential Clutch Kit, 697-780

from

$262.99
This differential disc kit is a low-cost, time-saving repair solution for the posi-traction function. They are designed to match the fit and performance of the original disc on specific vehicle years, makes and models.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Trac Loc For Ford 9"" Wtih 31 Spline Axles – Street Design, 26010" (Part No.26010)

"Yukon Gear Trac Loc For Ford 9"" Wtih 31 Spline Axles - Street Design, 26010"

from

$789.99
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 Trac Loc uses a nodular case, billet side hat, and forged internals for higher strength than stock Trac-Locs. The units use composite clutches for high performance and long life. All units are Rebuildable. Yukon offers a one year warranty against manufacturing defects.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Carrier Installation Kit for Ford 8.8"" Differential, 57007" (Part No.57007)

"Yukon Gear Carrier Installation Kit for Ford 8.8"" Differential, 57007"

from

$134.99
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.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Dura Grip Positraction For Ford 8.8"" With 31 Spline Axles, 26006" (Part No.26006)

"Yukon Gear Dura Grip Positraction For Ford 8.8"" With 31 Spline Axles, 26006"

from

$857.99
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.
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USA Standard Gear – USA Standard Gear Differential Spider Gear Kits, 39016 (Part No.39016)

USA Standard Gear Differential Spider Gear Kits, 39016

from

$209.99
USA Standard Gear Differential Spider Gear Kits, 39016.
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Dorman – Dorman Rear Axle Shaft, Left Or Right, 630-228A (Part No.630-228A)

Dorman Rear Axle Shaft, Left Or Right, 630-228A

from

$117.99
This axle shaft is designed to match the performance of the original equipment shaft on specified vehicle makes, models and years. When a factory axle shaft fails or is damaged by rust or collision, this replacement is engineered to help restore and ensure the proper transfer of torque and rotational power from the differential or transmission to the wheel.
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Motive Gear – Motive Gear Differential Pinion Shim Kit, 1100 (Part No.1100)

Motive Gear Differential Pinion Shim Kit, 1100

from

$6.99
High-quality Differential Component Shim
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Pinion Gear and Thrust Washer (0.875"" Shaft) for 8.8"" Ford, 33299" (Part No.33299)

"Yukon Gear Pinion Gear and Thrust Washer (0.875"" Shaft) for 8.8"" Ford, 33299"

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.
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Schaeffler – Schaeffler Tapered Roller Bearing, KT63 (Part No.KT63)

Schaeffler Tapered Roller Bearing, KT63

from

$25.99
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.
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Yukon Gear – Yukon Gear Pinion Setup Bearing for Popular GM, Ford, Dana, & Chrysler Differentials, 56045 (Part No.56045)

Yukon Gear Pinion Setup Bearing for Popular GM, Ford, Dana, & Chrysler Differentials, 56045

from

$153.99
Yukon Gear & Axle offers a full line of top quality differential tools to save time and money.
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Dorman – Help – Dorman – Help Pinion Crush Sleeves, 81056 (Part No.81056)

Dorman - Help Pinion Crush Sleeves, 81056

from

$6.99
This differential crush sleeve is designed to match the fit and function of the original sleeve on specified vehicles, and is engineered for durability and reliable performance.
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Motive Gear – Motive Gear Differential Internal Carrier Gear Kit, F9-IO (Part No.F9-IO)

Motive Gear Differential Internal Carrier Gear Kit, F9-IO

from

$108.99
Motive Gear Differential Internal Carrier Gear Kit, F9-IO.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Bearing Race Driver for Ford 9"", GM 10.5"", & Chrysler 11.5"" Differentials, 56019" (Part No.56019)

"Yukon Gear Bearing Race Driver for Ford 9"", GM 10.5"", & Chrysler 11.5"" Differentials, 56019"

from

$219.99
Yukon Gear & Axle offers a full line of top quality differential tools to save time and money.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Short Yoke for Ford 9"" Hd with 28 Spline Axles and A 1330 U/Joint Size, 41053" (Part No.41053)

"Yukon Gear Short Yoke for Ford 9"" Hd with 28 Spline Axles and A 1330 U/Joint Size, 41053"

from

$121.99
Yukon Gear and Axle manufactures a complete line of general replacement and performance series of pinion yokes for many street, racing, and heavy-duty off-road applications.
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Sealed Power – Sealed Power Engine Auxiliary Shaft Bearing Set, 1460M (Part No.1460M)

Sealed Power Engine Auxiliary Shaft Bearing Set, 1460M

from

$23.99
Sealed Power parts provide innovative designs, use leading-edge materials and utilize ISO & QS certified manufacturing in order to deliver top quality products that meet the rigorous demands of today’s modern engines.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Posi 12-Shim Kit, GM 8.2""/Gm 8.5""/12T/12P/Ford 8.8""/Cast Iron Vette, 16042" (Part No.16042)

"Yukon Gear Posi 12-Shim Kit, GM 8.2""/Gm 8.5""/12T/12P/Ford 8.8""/Cast Iron Vette, 16042"

from

$41.99
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.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Bearing Install Kit for Ford Daytona 9"" Differential, LM603011 Bearings, 11049" (Part No.11049)

"Yukon Gear Bearing Install Kit for Ford Daytona 9"" Differential, LM603011 Bearings, 11049"

from

$279.99
Yukon Bearing Installation Kits are perfect for shops and builders who have shims on the shelf and are looking to save cost over a Master Overhaul Kit. This kit uses Timken bearings and races along with all high-quality small parts. Yukon does extensive research for each application to make sure your kit will arrive with all the correct parts you need to properly install your ring and pinion gear set.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Spider Gear Kit for Ford 8.8"", 31 Spline, Trac Loc Posi, 16106" (Part No.16106)

"Yukon Gear Spider Gear Kit for Ford 8.8"", 31 Spline, Trac Loc Posi, 16106"

from

$363.99
Yukon Gear & Axle spider gear kits feature higher quality materials and better manufacturing techniques than OEM to ensure a longer lasting spider gear set. Kit delivers everything needed for a complete and proper spider gear set replacement.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Cover Bolt For Ford 7.5"", 8.8"" & 9.75"", 33554" (Part No.33554)

"Yukon Gear Cover Bolt For Ford 7.5"", 8.8"" & 9.75"", 33554"

from

$6.99
“Yukon 1541H alloy replacement rear axle for Dana 60, 70, and 80, 35 spline. (40″” to 43.5″”) Full float axle (8×3.96″” ). 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 full-floating axle.”
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Felpro – Felpro Axle Housing Cover Gasket Round Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket, RDS 55459 (Part No.RDS 55459)

Felpro Axle Housing Cover Gasket Round Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket, RDS 55459

from

$9.99
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.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear 3.062"" Side Adjuster for Ford 9"", 32139" (Part No.32139)

"Yukon Gear 3.062"" Side Adjuster for Ford 9"", 32139"

from

$94.99
Yukon Gear & Axle dropouts are heavy duty. They feature upgraded nodular iron construction and a larger-than-OEM design to provide unrivaled strength and reliability in racing and off-road applications.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Trac Loc Internals for 8"" & 9"" Ford, 31 Spline, Includes Hub & Clutches, 16027" (Part No.16027)

"Yukon Gear Trac Loc Internals for 8"" & 9"" Ford, 31 Spline, Includes Hub & Clutches, 16027"

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.
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Pro-King – Pro-King Differential Internal Nest Kit, 761A717 (Part No.761A717)

Pro-King Differential Internal Nest Kit, 761A717

from

$309.99
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.
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Valvoline – Valvoline Flex Fill Transmission & Differential Gear Oil: Full Synthetic 75W-140, 1 Quart, 889787 (Part No.889787)

Valvoline Flex Fill Transmission & Differential Gear Oil: Full Synthetic 75W-140, 1 Quart, 889787

from

$19.99
We’ve squeezed innovation into every ounce of Valvoline FlexFill SAE 75W-140 Full Synthetic Gear Oil, the ultimate gear protection in hypoid rear differentials and non-synchronized manual transmissions. Our unique new flexible pouch makes getting into the tightest places to lubricate gears easier than ever and with less waste. The superior detergent package-based formulation contains fully synthetic basestocks and special additives that help protect parts from rust and corrosion while providing exceptional high and low temperature protection and excellent thermal stability, especially in demanding driving situations such as towing and off-roading. It contains an extreme pressure additive for better load carrying capacity, wear resistance additives that assist in protecting gear teeth, a limited slip additive for optimal clutch pack performance, and an anti-foaming agent for better lubrication and service life. Valvoline FlexFill SAE 75W-140 Full Synthetic Gear Oil is recommended for use in axle applications requiring factory-fill or drain-and-fill levels for limited slip performance. Volume: 1 quart.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Ford 8"" & 9"" Tracloc Ring Gear Bolt, 33044" (Part No.33044)

"Yukon Gear Ford 8"" & 9"" Tracloc Ring Gear Bolt, 33044"

from

$4.99
“Ford 8″” & 9″” TracLoc ring gear bolt, 1-1/4″” long.”
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Most Popular Differential Oil for 1981 Mercury Cougars

Enhance your 1981 Mercury Cougar with one of the 2 Differential Oil we have in stock, starting at just $44.99.

Yukon Gear – Yukon Gear 3 Qt – Penzoil 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil, 15002 (Part No.15002)

Yukon Gear 3 Qt - Penzoil 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil, 15002

from

$44.99
Union 76 gear oil is a conventional non-synthetic 80W90 formulation designed for all types of differentials.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Redline Synthetic ""Shock Proof"" Oil – 4 Quarts, 15004" (Part No.15004)

"Yukon Gear Redline Synthetic ""Shock Proof"" Oil - 4 Quarts, 15004"

from

$137.99
Redline Heavy Shockproof Gear Oil is formulated to provide lasting protection.
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Best-Selling 1981 Mercury Cougar Differential Carrier Bearing Set

Upgrade your Cougar with our best-selling Differential Carrier Bearing Set with a 5 Starts rating across 1 review.

Driveworks – Driveworks Taper Bearing Set, S-A-17 (Part No.S-A-17)

Driveworks Taper Bearing Set, S-A-17

from

$12.49
Value-priced bearing meets all cataloged application requirements.
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Top-Quality Differential Covers for 1981 Mercury Cougars

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Differential Cover for Mercury Cougars and enjoy top-notch performance from $8.99.

Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Outer Oil Slinger For Ford 7.5"", 8.8"", 9"", 10.25"", 33022" (Part No.33022)

"Yukon Gear Outer Oil Slinger For Ford 7.5"", 8.8"", 9"", 10.25"", 33022"

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.”
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Steel Cover for Ford 8.8"", 32328" (Part No.32328)

"Yukon Gear Steel Cover for Ford 8.8"", 32328"

from

$99.99
These Yukon replacement diff covers are a direct bolt-on.
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Yukon Gear – Yukon Gear Ford OEM Steel Differential Cover, 32364 (Part No.32364)

Yukon Gear Ford OEM Steel Differential Cover, 32364

from

$99.99
These Yukon replacement diff covers are a direct bolt-on.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Chrome Cover for 8.8"" Ford, 32009" (Part No.32009)

"Yukon Gear Chrome Cover for 8.8"" Ford, 32009"

from

$74.99
These Yukon replacement diff covers take your rig a step beyond the boring factory look. They are the stock OE design finished in chrome.
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Yukon Gear – "Yukon Gear Chrome Cover for 7.5"" Ford, 32008" (Part No.32008)

"Yukon Gear Chrome Cover for 7.5"" Ford, 32008"

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.
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Our Top Pick for a 1981 Mercury Cougar Differential Pinion Seal

Invest in a durable Differential Pinion Seal for your 1981 Mercury, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

Schaeffler – Schaeffler Shaft Seal, SS2865 (Part No.SS2865)

Schaeffler Shaft Seal, SS2865

from

$11.99
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.
See More

Top-Rated Rear Housing Cover Gaskets for 1981 Mercury Cougars

Make a smart move for your 1981 Mercury Cougar with products all priced from $7.49.

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

Felpro Axle Housing Cover Gasket Oval Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket, RDS 55393

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

Victor Reinz Axle Housing Cover Gasket, 71-14838-00

from

$7.49
With Victor Reinz gaskets, you can be sure you are getting sealing solutions that deliver OE quality gasket technology and engineering. That is because Victor Reinz is an original equipment supplier and the trusted choice of manufacturers the world over, offering broad coverage for foreign and domestic cars and trucks. In Victor Reinz gasket sets, you get the right combination of components needed for fast, long-lasting repairs.
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Top-Rated Differential Brands For Your 1981 Mercury Cougar

When it comes to finding the perfect Differential for your 1981 Mercury Cougar, Advance Auto Parts has you covered with a wide selection of high-quality OEM and aftermarket options from 15 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 Mercury Cougar, providing peace of mind with parts that meet or exceed OEM standards.

Popular National 1981 Mercury Cougar Differentials

If you’re looking for a top-quality Differential for your 1981 Mercury Cougar, Advance Auto Parts has exactly what you need with our selection of National Differentials. We have 1 National Differentials in stock for this fitment, all known for their durability and precision fit. With prices starting at just $11.99, you’ll find the perfect Differential for your needs and budget. National Differentials for the 1981 Mercury Cougar come highly rated, with over 2 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.
National Bearing Race, LM501314
from $11.99
(2)
National Bearing Race, LM501314
“good quality & price”

Top-Quality Driveworks 1981 Mercury Cougar Differentials

For those in search of a high-quality Differential for their 1981 Mercury Cougar, 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 $12.49, giving you a range of options to suit your budget. Backed by over 1 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.
Driveworks Taper Bearing Set, S-A-17
from $12.49
(1)
Driveworks Taper Bearing Set, S-A-17
“Looked felt fine quality”

FAQs for 1981 Mercury Cougar Differentials

What are the best-selling Differentials for 1981 Mercury Cougars?

Out of 148 Differentials that fit 1981 Mercury Cougars, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1981 Mercury Cougar Differentials?

The prices of Differentials for the 1981 Mercury Cougar range from $1.29 up to $1,115.99 for the most premium parts.

What is the average price of a Differential for a 1981 Mercury Cougar?

The average price for Differentials for the 1981 Mercury Cougar is $218.38. 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 Mercury Cougar model years?

Yes, we carry Differentials for 33 model years of Mercury Cougars between 1967 and 2002. The following model years are the most popular for Differential purchases: 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994, and 1993.

What are the cheapest Differentials for my 1981 Mercury Cougar?

The cheapest 1981 Mercury Cougar Differentials we carry are:

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

Yes. We stock Differentials for 4 other popular 1981 Mercury models. Some of the most popular are 1981 Grand Marquis Differentials, 1981 Capri Differentials, 1981 Zephyr Differentials, 1981 Marquis Differentials, and 1981 Lynx Differentials.

What are the top-rated Differentials that fit the 1981 Mercury Cougar?

The one 1981 Mercury Cougar Differential we have in stock is the Pro-King Differential Ring Gear Bolt, 761A935. It costs $1.29.

What types of Differentials do you sell for my 1981 Mercury Cougar?

As of 8/2/26, these are some of the most in-demand types of Differentials for a 1981 Mercury Cougar:

Can I get help with 1981 Mercury Cougar Differential orders?

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

What is your return policy for Mercury Cougar Differentials?

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