Time for a rear axle swap. Dana 44
- Thread starter Jesse
- Start date
Bounty__Hunter
Super Moderator
You need to get one from a TJ unless you're willing to buy the $300+ bracket kit and have the axle welded/installed. If you're already aware of needing the bracket kit, get a Ford 8.8 from a '95+ Exploder, it has disc brakes and the correct lug pattern.
abe
New member
somewhere in the range of 1000$ for the D44 from a Rubi.
it should be a direct bolt up. un glue the old one and glue in the new one. just mak sure the ring and pinion gears r the same as the front, or REALLY BAD things could happen.:shock:
Bounty__Hunter
Super Moderator
Why don't you care for it? What's not to like?
Jesse
New member
It seems to me that there is some work required to get it onto the jeep, plus there is the size difference, also I've come to understand you have to do a fair amount of work to get it ready for offroading. But at the same time I'm sure there is a lot more to it then what I've said here.
Bounty__Hunter
Super Moderator
No more work than any other axle that doesn't have the TJ brackets. The width is close enough. Ford 8.8 Axle Install - 1
jfrabat
New member
Keep in mind that TJ D44's have weaker axle tubes than the standard D44's, so I would go for Isuzu D44's from a rodeo or Honda Passport in the rear and Waggy front D44. Change bolt pattern to 5X5.5, rear disc brakes, and cheap to install (relatively speaking when compared to a brand new axle) and plenty of aftermarket support (and low gearing option!).
Bounty__Hunter
Super Moderator
Why change the lug pattern when the Waggy and 'Zu axles already match with quite possibly one of the most common lug patterns in the world?
jfrabat
New member
No, I meant you GET the new bolt pattern (implying that he needs new wheels, including a spare; already had a buddy change to D44's, and forgot to changle the spare, and of course, he found out in the middle of nowhere that his spare would not fit, and nobody in the group had his tire size - NOT a fun trip!)
Bounty__Hunter
Super Moderator
Ahh ok, then he would have the 6x5.5" lug pattern, not 5x5.5", which is what threw me off. BTW my Belize trip was GREAT, can't wait to get back.
jfrabat
New member
for the rear, a TJ D44 is much better than the D35, but on the front, the only advantage is lower gearing (tubes are about the same thickness, and the newer D30 use the larger U-joints anyway). But, all the brackets will already be weldedin.
For the others, you need to weld and do a bit of fabricating, but you get a stronger axle (thicker tubes) and rear disc brakes
For the others, you need to weld and do a bit of fabricating, but you get a stronger axle (thicker tubes) and rear disc brakes
