I need this info for a rear Dana 44. How to hybrid the old iron Dana 44 vs the JK/Passport/Titan Dana 44. Trying to bypass the ZJ Dana 44a. Thanks sir.
Actually had this conversation with my fabricator at work today, he’s quick to push 60s on everyone but doesn’t take the time like you did to thoroughly explain how and why about the whole deal. Really appreciate that. Keep up the great content!
Built a 77’ ford front D44 in my XJ. Removed stock tubes installed 1/2” thick walled tubes, auburn elocker chrome axles and stubs race polished 4.56 gears with a bolt behind the ring gear to stop deflection. I beat the hell out of it. With a stocked 4.0l and atlas II transfer. And 35” tires. I’ve been saying this for years but can’t seem to get anyone to agree. Finally glad to see you and Matt talking about it. I like your info better and may use those shafts you mentioned if I do break one I have. Very good channel keep it coming. Thanks!!!
I love it. It’s broken...ish and you keep wheeling 4 more trips before opening it up. And a plug for RCV. This fella knows his stuff and is doing some real wheeling.
Carl Jantz is a genius and an awesome dude. I have talked to him at the 4x4 swap meets in Puyallup. He also has a UA-cam channel with info on the Jana 54 and others
Nate packs a ton of info into a short amount of time. Normally, I would get bored, but he is authentic and makes it interesting. Totally DIG your channel!!!
Always good information... back about 100 years ago... in the Tri Cities.. we wheeled around with the PNW4WD Association... don't know if they are still around. But I seem to remember that everyone wanted 44's on the front and if you had it a 60 in the rear.. and change from open knuckles to closed or vice versa can't remember now.. to many years ago... we used to like a limited slip in the front unless it was purely a hard corps off road rig and then we had a full locker, but that was a sacrifice of turn ability...trusses were very important along with limiting straps to prevent axle drop... we also liked having both the front and rear wider than stock and set as far forward on the front and back in the rear to increase wheel base in width and length.... anyway, long long long ago lol... enjoy your programs, informative and brings back a few old memories lol...
..."you know, like smart people do." Great line! I've gotta use that one! great content. Before I did a 60 swap on my K5 this year, I built up the stock 30 spline 10 bolt with knuckles, x-over steering, upgraded brakes and good gears. I punished that thing for 3 years, sold it and the current owner is beating on it in his K5 without issue. People hate on the 10 bolts more, but the later models can be built to work hard too, and parts are plentiful and cheap!
With so many channels covering wrenching projects on trucks/jeeps, there are a lot that are hard to watch. Thanks for being watchable as a presenter, and taking the production quality into consideration. Sometimes I'll even watch stuff on your channel I don't even plan on doing (like fabrication) haha!
Keep the Great content coming... Too many of Us that can’t afford the 100,000 Jeeps. Making what you’ve got... Better... Is something that Lots of Us will really appreciate ! 😃
Good info! Currently using a 79 bronco 44 in my xj with 40s..always hear the "that's gonna break" comments on our Oregon trails.🙄 Hasn't happened yet. Wish I could say the same about my 60 in front of my suburban... The jantz stuff was new to me so kudos for that!
Love it! I’m running a DV8 housing, RCVs, Reid knuckles, Eaton, and 5.13s on my JK and was considering going to 40s in the future but was skeptical. This makes me much more confident to move from my 37s to 40s. Awesome videos by the way
Couldn't agree more. I had a CJ on a D44/9" combo that was bulletproof for my driving style on 36" SX's. That's what I'm leaning toward for my current XJ.
Right foot has alot to do with it. I think the main reason 60s break is because the driver thinks he has a tank so that individual is more abusive. I have 44s. Had a 25 that never broke but i was nice to it
My roommate is a 44 hater to the bone and I have a 44 and only broke my shafts on one occasion and upgraded to chromalies and trashed my spiders once. This will allow me to build it over time and show him it’s a long of all axles! Love this video
I dealt with Carl on a Dana 70 in a custom chassis FWD motorhome. I had a 502 w/MPFI and never broke it. The stock 70 broke 3 times before that. Only motorhome I know that would chirp the front wheels between 1st and second at 50 mph. Carl is a good guy. Something else that we did was cryogenically treat everything inside the case. Cryo doesn't make it stronger, but it does make it more rigid without being more brittle. This helps to keep stuff from flexing and loosing mesh. We also had the bearing girdles and the special cover to stabilize the case.
Good stuff Nate. Thanks for sharing. I'm in the middle of an LS swap in my TJ. But, I stuck with the D30 up front with chromoly shafts and a truss (that I haven't welded on yet. I'm dreading having to do that.) I did upgrade the ring/pinion and carrier. We'll see how it holds up. I'll come back here when/if I need to replace it. I'm running an 8.8 in the rear.
Absolutely love that video. Running a 14 JK carbon built rockjock 44 Detroit Locker and the rear Dana 44 with a Torsen LSD both carbon chromoly shafts. I do like to gas on it I like to play on the fuel I like to get sideways on the pavement. Been planning on 35 for a long time. 488 gears. But now and then I do think about a 37 but don't completely trust it and I don't want to be stuck in the middle of the woods with a broken Axl.
I've got a re-worked JKR44 in mine. Bought it in pieces, new thick wall (3/8') DOM tube, a selection of Barnes and Ballistic mounts/truss, but otherwise stock other than 4.88's. Built it myself, and still a good penny into it. Went 8.8 out back.
The 78/79 Bronco/F150 axle housings have cast wedges on the axles tubes and the can’t be removed unless you retube it. The 76-77 wedges were welded on and as you can be removed.
You're spot on with all of this! The only thing I will point out is that even though the D44 is cheaper than the D60, the overall cost to build this ultimate D44 is still huge. I was about to go this route, but when I started adding it all up, I could get a dana44 to be just as strong as a stock D60, and stronger in some regards, but I couldn't get it nearly as strong as a D60 for the same price. A superduty D60 with all the brakes and everything can be had for $500. It takes a TON of money to get a D44 up to even that starting point. But it is nice to have options! Great video!
This was a helpful video. I have a set of Scout axles in my side yard to build up for my Sidekick... A lot of people kept telling me to go Yota or d60's. Those were both much more expensive. Not to mention the d60's would be heavy for my lil' 1.6 liter motor!
Came across your channel and subscribed right away. Unbreakable Dana 44 really caught my attention. I have something going on in my rear end when driving along pavement, driving up a gravel hill to a ski hill parking lot or even driving along a gravel road with my Dana 44/Detroit Lockers/Cromonly axle or something. It snaps loud enough to make you think the rear end blew up and it almost drives you across the road to the opposite lane. Has been doing this for a while and I almost think it is happening more often as time passes. I don't drive her very much now because of the issue. 95YJ, 360 AMC V8, Holley 4 barrel, Elderbrock intake manifold, 4 speed manual, Dana 44 front and rear with Detroit lockers, Cromoly axles, 4.27 gear ratio and I currently run 35's on her. Hope you cover rear end noises, snaps, crackles, pops and the likes in one of your future videos. Keep up the good work at your new full time job.
I really appreciate the short, "If you don't know what i'm talking about, or you're new to this..." tangents. Quick , informative, doesn't distract from the rest of the content. Well done. Keep it up! I hope your adventure away from plumbing goes better than planned this year. You've made a follower out of me!
I watch a lot of your videos Made me start building a 97 tacoma useing dana44 useing most of your idea, I never do this before but you made me want to do it Thank you
Loving the channel Nate. I have a 1976 F250 LP D44 going into my YJ...using the Jana K4 kit. That kit is designed for LP D44 axles, the other kit (swapping D50 gears into a D44) is the HP housing kit. Keep up the great work, it takes guts to do what you're doing brutha.
@@DirtLifestyle I don't see any big deal. There's a provision from Jantz for either one (HP gets beefier D50 gears, LP gets JK D44 rear gears). Win/win, glad you are pointing out Jantz's kits...he has the coolest stuff.
@@DirtLifestyle The front axle on a JK is a high pinion BUT it has the same size ring & pinion as the Ford axles. The rear is the axle that has the larger R&P. Karl talked about all this on Pirate when he was coming out with the kits. I can give you a link to the discussion if you want. Also ARB make a 35 spline for the D44 so you can still get those 35 spline shafts if you want.
Pretty much what I plan on doing with my 44 minus the RCVs because they are too expensive. JANTZ kit with chromoly axles. Nice to see someone actually supporting the 44. Most forums just say don't bother get a 60 when you ask for advice. Some of the GM housings are good too but they are passenger diff low pinion. Mines out of a 76 3/4 ton suburban. 3 inch circumference with 1/2 inch tubes. Should be pretty decent with 35s or 37s.
Funny because was just discussing the stock 44’s on the Jeep Gladiators and someone was asking us about just trussing it etc to beer it up instead of swapping to tons. But in the long run, depending on your uses, it could end up being a lot more cost effective to just go to 60’s right off the bat. Because if you swap later, you’re gonna have to switch wheels (most likely 8 lugs) more cost. You gonna have broken or extremely abused 44’s worth less now. You’re gonna have to pay to have more labor done etc. There’s so many pros and cons to beefing up 44’s vs upgrading. We are gonna push our 44’s to the absolutely MAX stock just to show exactly what they are capable of before swapping. There’s a lot more to this and could go on and on. You’ve covered so many good points didn’t even think about.
Completely agree with all the talking points in your video. There is one thing I would add to your ultimate 44 build: a rigid cover with adjustable carrier bearing supports, if you have the steering clearance to do it. That type of cover adds a tremendous amount of rigidity to any housing.
Well, the one thing about video's like this... it gives me too many ideas! lol. Right now I have an LJR on 37's with chromo's and Artec truss and C-gussets. Peeps keep telling me I'm gonna break it. Which makes me watch video's like this. Haha. But being retired and on a budget it's staying like this for now. But certainly good info. for the future! Thanks Nate. Keep up the great work and trail vids! Moab in 2 weeks! Woot!
I have a 79 wagoneer, front and rear 44s. Odd duck passenger drop. I want to keep the "stock" drive train but beef it up as much as possible. Don't like the way 1 tons make the tires stick way out on a waggy, and i'm only interested in running 35s. This gives me some ideas for the future, even if the cost will be high. Some of us just don't want to go to big heavy 1 tons. Thanks for sticking up for the old 44!
7 years on my dana 44s ZERO ISSUES on 37s under my s10. Bought a dana SD50 and a e350 semi float 60 for dumb cheap Of course all my buddies say its basically a 44. ( referring to the 50) and im gonna shit the axle shafts yadda yadda yadda. Good video man.
A lot of force, yes, but that can be solved also. The teraflex 8 lug hub runs a 35 spline stub shaft and RCV builds a kit that has a 35 spline stub shaft for the teraflex kit and 35 spline inners for the JK 44 locker with a 35 spline sleeves. This is how I have my rig setup. It’s way lighter than a D60.
even more turd polish. and a good way to have a $6000 dana 44. Also no way it's significantly lighter than a 60, after all the components are upgraded to the same physical size as a 60, and enough trusses and gussets are welded on to keep it half way straight (in the case of a JK axle)
Cooper scooper, you don’t have a cogent argument. If you’re running enough power or big enough tires with low enough gears to twist off the splines of a wheel hub, you shouldn’t be running a D44 in any iteration. Otherwise, A Currie housing ( 3” tubes and reinforced Cs) and the other guts I mentioned comes out to around 210 lbs ( I have weight it) vs a fitted out D60 at 335lbs (I have converted and weighed it too) Yes, it’s significantly lighter.
@@nicholascooper1193 He specifically states the problems with the JK axle and tells you NOT to build it (use a late 70's Ford). And of course it's lighter.
How about suggestions for newbies. For instance, first 5 things you would suggest doing to your TJ. Starting out with V6 with Dana 35 4.10 gears on 33's. Semi budget friendly suggestions? Great videos!
Nate I wholeheartedly agree with you on this issue The Dana 44 is a GREAT platform for most applications I have upgraded my 05 TJ with Dana 44 G2 housings chromally Shafts twin lockers currently running 35s I was told by all my buddies not to waste my money JUST DO 60s that’s what they all said I like the stock width And lower weight I have with my 44s I also believe I can run up to a 40 in tyre without an issue however I would not be able to get it in the garage 🤣🤣🤣 Great vid keep up the great work
These are really good for builds like yours and mine. I know the garage struggle very well! Before we bought this house I was airing down to fit in the garage 😂
I'm not a jeep guy but I love watching videos about this. If I ever SAS my truck I think a d60 is overkill so nice to know a 44 can be beefed up. Good video
Hey Nate, Huge fan, the K4 kit is for low pinion 44 housings only. It’s an 8.9in ring gear that came in the rear of a JK. So it can only work on Chevy 44s, waggy 44s, all the low pinion ones. The Jana 54 is a high pinion gearset for high pinion 44s and a 9in ring gear. With that said you can put a JK carrier in an older housing and still go 35 spline. The ford hi pinion 44 is the best 44 you can get IMO. I have seen them take years of abuse on many different style rigs and put one under my SAS Hummer H3 with a 5.3 and 40s with no R&P issues. I ended up building a custom D70 front end because I got the invite for Ultimate Adventure and they were concerned about the 44 under a big rig. Thanks again for all you do! Hope to see you at KOH! We toured the podcast guys around last time one of them came down and I heard you might go going with them!
Full-time UA-cam Nate is the shit! Great information and being a JKUR owner I've been saying it for some time. Build the right axle with the right mods and you can make them survive.
GIVE ME MORE!! Currently in a build with sleeving and trussing a JK rubicon Dana44, but keep wondering if my time and money are going to waste instead of yanking dana 60's out of a 2005 and up 2005 Ford F250... In the middle of the build, need to decide on what ball joints to go with (are the $550 DynaTrack rebuild-able joints worth the cost? or just stick with Spicer's?) Should I preemptively put chromalloy shafts in now or wait to break my stock shafts before deciding to go to RCV's or something else considering the cost? 115,000 miles on the jeep since the front axle will be getting pulled out and regeared should one just figure to replace the unit bearings just because its all out and taken apart? Running 38's on stock 3.6 and LOVE IT. Thanks!!
We did the JKR Ring and Pinion upgrade in the rear of my LJR and it is important to note I still got to use my stock TJ/LJ Rubicon locker. This is a no brainer upgrade for TJ Rubicon guys but you never see it and no one seems to know about it. Just upgrade the R&P and reuse your stock locker and chromoly or stock axle shafts. Thanks for sharing the info Nate. Hope to see you on the trail one day.
Great video!! I'm looking at axle upgrades for my XJ and wanting 44's. I don't need bigger since I run 35's, but don't want to spend money on my Dana 30.
All good info. I knew there were plenty of upgrades for the D44, but didn't realize the weak points of the newer version. I understand the lighter axle for sure. A D60 is a heavy pig. All that being said, the D60 has a bunch of upgrades as well. If you upgrade a D60 with the same parts as the ultimate D44, the only downside would be the weight. I went D60 for my TJ. 87 F350 king pin, added a truss, conversion to the gm HD brakes from a 2004 2500. Haven't decided on what differential to use, or if I'm going to upgrade the axles right away or not.
Great video, I've watched it several time for ideas. Finally building a set of Dana 44s. JL Rubicon front and JK 44 for the rear... to be put in the ZJ. Thanks for sharing.
I've always been envious of yours and Matt's 44 holding up to 40's..lol I broke a stock stub 2nd trip, had to warranty a set of yukon's and would take out a spicer u-joint every 3rd trip and tried an OX super joint and it only lasted 5 trips. Thats under a light chopped top Bronco 2 with a little 2.9L and 38's, its currently getting tons and 40's so I can probably keep breaking it like the 44 because that's how my life goes...LOL
Dang nate, just started doing my research on d44s so i can have it when my d30 goes. Your video helped alot, still confused on what year doner i should be looking for to keep the jeep width.
Its hard to stay Jeep width, Lots of aftermarket vendors make TJ or JK width housings that make it easy. There are some scout, early bronco, and wagoneer options you could look at though.
Hey Nate quick question can you put those axles in a little Ford Ranger without having to put a bigger Motor Inn I've got the V6 that's been working like a champ turning the vehicle into an Overland vehicle just want to make sure that I'm going to be strong enough for whatever comes up thank you and thank you for the videos
A lot of people been telling me just to change them out and put 8.8 but I want something a little heavier because it will be hauling a trailer around also
@@cliffordsmithey464 The ford 8.8 is a great axle. it should handle anything in a rangers weight class for towing. Only reason larger trucks have a full float rear is because they have a higher load rating. And a proper D44 will be just as strong as the IFS that your ranger has.
A new video on a Monday? Someone must have quit their job.👍 Great info Nate. I've had beefed up 44s in a TJ build before and same as you, never worried about them. In fact, like you, I beat the dickens out of them on 38s and 5.13s. Never an issue. Personally, I've found most of the people hyping "go 60s!" are just repeating what they've heard from others and have no real world experience with 44s. Keep em' coming. Every vid is a "must watch".👍👍👍
I've got a wagoneer front 44 and a TJ 44 rear in my TJ on 37s with lockers on both with no real problems. I'm debating building a new set though when I build my new suspension. There's a Ford HP 44 with high steer, and matching rear d60 for $400 on Facebook right now that look pretty enticing lol. My plan is slight stretch and maybe 40s down the road.
The Jana K4 kit is for standard rotation 44s and the Jana 54 is for HP44s. Not sure if that was mentioned, I'm building another HP44 for my LJ and I'm really considering just doing the Jana 54 from the get go.
Hey Nate what are you thought on the JT Dana 44s? They have thicker axle tubes and bigger Cs. I’m hoping with RCVs and a front axle truss they will hold up nicely with the 38s that I’m running.
Lots of good information here Nate. I run a Dana 44 rear, think that JK ring and pinion is in it future along with 35 spline shafts. One thing ya won’t ever be able to talk me into is any kind of locker that runs on air (seen way too many buddies have leakage issues haha!) Love this channel not only for good information but your cool attitude as well, take care man.
Thanks brother! The auto lockers like a detroit are more dependable in my experience. But it's really nice to turn the lockers off! Lol. It all depends on the build. I think I'm going to keep selectable on my tj but use automatics for my jeep truck. 👍 thanks for watching
Good content. I replaced the axles in my jku with a Dynatrac serious performance set. Sold the stock 30 front. Thinking of keeping the rear 44. After the week at EJS and seeing the cool rigs I’m tempted to build a tj type buggy. Probably pushing it but a dynatrac trail leader package would be a cool 44 set in a light build with 40’s.
I don't have any experience unfortunately. Because of the small scrub radius on my build I don't put much pressure on ball joints. I replace them when I got the axle and haven't had to since. 👍
Doesn't take that much cash. A junk yard 44/50/60, junk yard leaf springs, maybe a junk yard steering box (if said truck had rack and pinion) and some builder parts tabs. The most expensive single part would be a custom drive shaft. Depending on the truck and build, it could be done for under $2k.
The Jantz kits use regular Dana 44 3.73 and down lockers so you don't get the option of JK lockers also I think the k4 kit only works on low pinion axles so you have to use the 54 kit for high pinion 44s.
@@DirtLifestyle I only know because I am looking at both as options for my LJ I have a HP F250 D44 (boat anchor) that was in my XJ and the LJ came with a rear 44.
Thanks for this video! I've got my shopping list started. ;) I've got TWO ford kingpin 60 housings in my shop right now, and im really at odds with myself on what to do with them. You've got me thinking... Sell em both, and get a 44 front. Then swap the 44 and the d60 rear i also have sitting, into the jeep. I feel like a 60/44 combo would be perfect for my style of wheeling.
The Dana 50 gears are for high pinion housing like your 79 F-250. The JK 44 is your for your low pinion housings, using the rear JK44 gear set. The HP JK44 pinion is shorter and will not fit the old school 44 housing.
I'm looking forward to learning from you in your new "job"...question...if you were going to by a TJ Wrangler and do some restoration work to freshen it up (engine, paint, interior etc) and use mainly on the road but be highly capable off road too.... would you limit your search to a Rubicon or buy any of the other models and do the changes necessary to bring it up to the capabilities of a Rubicon?
It would depend on your desired size. Having d44 front and rear takes care of alot of the guess work when selecting axles. You've have somthing very capable right out of the box. All it needs is gears and 35s. Now you can hit 90% of the trails in the us. The bummer about a sport or an x is your looking at getting new front/rear axles and a new tcase to match the same amount capability. Food for thought 👍
I wish this video would have been out b4 I just built my 44 last year. Gotta caged xj and I stuffed it with Yukon but I knew nothing about the pinion upgrade definitely would have went that way
REAL WORLD ANSWERS TO REAL WORLD PROBLEMS, BEST JEEP CHANNEL
Thanks!
Bingo!
I second that. The amount of knowledge spread upon me by this channel is crazy.
just started watching your vids! great job! not a bunch of fillers just to the point!
Instablaster.
Already looking like you made the right decision quitting your Job and doing this full time!
Thanks brother! 👍
Coming from another Union brother, hell ya homie you made the right choice. Hopefully someday I’ll be doing the same.
Union Steamfitter, I give you props and jealous at the same time. Want to do the same someday. Love the vids, keep them coming.
I need this info for a rear Dana 44.
How to hybrid the old iron Dana 44 vs the JK/Passport/Titan Dana 44. Trying to bypass the ZJ Dana 44a.
Thanks sir.
@@xmo552 it's been a year, what did you do ?
You’re killing it with the content. Glad to see you getting 100% for the 110% you give.
Thanks!
Actually had this conversation with my fabricator at work today, he’s quick to push 60s on everyone but doesn’t take the time like you did to thoroughly explain how and why about the whole deal. Really appreciate that. Keep up the great content!
A 60 rear axle is a 30 spline 3/4 ton axle. And they are terrible 👍
Wow!!! Just quit your job and now posted a video 40min ago with 1.2k views. Great job, I think you got a good thing going!!!!!!
Thank you! I hope this is what the future looks like lol. I'm in the shop putting together the next video as we speak 👍
Built a 77’ ford front D44 in my XJ. Removed stock tubes installed 1/2” thick walled tubes, auburn elocker chrome axles and stubs race polished 4.56 gears with a bolt behind the ring gear to stop deflection. I beat the hell out of it. With a stocked 4.0l and atlas II transfer. And 35” tires. I’ve been saying this for years but can’t seem to get anyone to agree. Finally glad to see you and Matt talking about it. I like your info better and may use those shafts you mentioned if I do break one I have. Very good channel keep it coming. Thanks!!!
Thanks! Sounds like you have a well built axle!
I love it. It’s broken...ish and you keep wheeling 4 more trips before opening it up. And a plug for RCV. This fella knows his stuff and is doing some real wheeling.
Carl Jantz is a genius and an awesome dude. I have talked to him at the 4x4 swap meets in Puyallup. He also has a UA-cam channel with info on the Jana 54 and others
Good stuff
Nate packs a ton of info into a short amount of time. Normally, I would get bored, but he is authentic and makes it interesting. Totally DIG your channel!!!
Always good information... back about 100 years ago... in the Tri Cities.. we wheeled around with the PNW4WD Association... don't know if they are still around. But I seem to remember that everyone wanted 44's on the front and if you had it a 60 in the rear.. and change from open knuckles to closed or vice versa can't remember now.. to many years ago... we used to like a limited slip in the front unless it was purely a hard corps off road rig and then we had a full locker, but that was a sacrifice of turn ability...trusses were very important along with limiting straps to prevent axle drop... we also liked having both the front and rear wider than stock and set as far forward on the front and back in the rear to increase wheel base in width and length.... anyway, long long long ago lol... enjoy your programs, informative and brings back a few old memories lol...
44% of me misses my tj. Brilliant again, Nate!
Lol thanks!
..."you know, like smart people do." Great line! I've gotta use that one! great content. Before I did a 60 swap on my K5 this year, I built up the stock 30 spline 10 bolt with knuckles, x-over steering, upgraded brakes and good gears. I punished that thing for 3 years, sold it and the current owner is beating on it in his K5 without issue. People hate on the 10 bolts more, but the later models can be built to work hard too, and parts are plentiful and cheap!
Thanks man! Lol. I agree the 10bolt can be built pretty decent 👍
With so many channels covering wrenching projects on trucks/jeeps, there are a lot that are hard to watch. Thanks for being watchable as a presenter, and taking the production quality into consideration. Sometimes I'll even watch stuff on your channel I don't even plan on doing (like fabrication) haha!
Keep the Great content coming... Too many of Us that can’t afford the 100,000 Jeeps. Making what you’ve got... Better... Is something that Lots of Us will really appreciate ! 😃
Good info! Currently using a 79 bronco 44 in my xj with 40s..always hear the "that's gonna break" comments on our Oregon trails.🙄 Hasn't happened yet. Wish I could say the same about my 60 in front of my suburban... The jantz stuff was new to me so kudos for that!
Love it! I’m running a DV8 housing, RCVs, Reid knuckles, Eaton, and 5.13s on my JK and was considering going to 40s in the future but was skeptical. This makes me much more confident to move from my 37s to 40s. Awesome videos by the way
Couldn't agree more. I had a CJ on a D44/9" combo that was bulletproof for my driving style on 36" SX's. That's what I'm leaning toward for my current XJ.
Right foot has alot to do with it. I think the main reason 60s break is because the driver thinks he has a tank so that individual is more abusive. I have 44s. Had a 25 that never broke but i was nice to it
My roommate is a 44 hater to the bone and I have a 44 and only broke my shafts on one occasion and upgraded to chromalies and trashed my spiders once. This will allow me to build it over time and show him it’s a long of all axles! Love this video
So good to hear you speak well of the Jantz gear- I have been considering it for years, and am finally ready to tackle R&P work.
I dealt with Carl on a Dana 70 in a custom chassis FWD motorhome. I had a 502 w/MPFI and never broke it. The stock 70 broke 3 times before that. Only motorhome I know that would chirp the front wheels between 1st and second at 50 mph. Carl is a good guy.
Something else that we did was cryogenically treat everything inside the case. Cryo doesn't make it stronger, but it does make it more rigid without being more brittle. This helps to keep stuff from flexing and loosing mesh. We also had the bearing girdles and the special cover to stabilize the case.
Good stuff Nate. Thanks for sharing. I'm in the middle of an LS swap in my TJ. But, I stuck with the D30 up front with chromoly shafts and a truss (that I haven't welded on yet. I'm dreading having to do that.) I did upgrade the ring/pinion and carrier. We'll see how it holds up. I'll come back here when/if I need to replace it. I'm running an 8.8 in the rear.
Absolutely love that video. Running a 14 JK carbon built rockjock 44 Detroit Locker and the rear Dana 44 with a Torsen LSD both carbon chromoly shafts. I do like to gas on it I like to play on the fuel I like to get sideways on the pavement. Been planning on 35 for a long time. 488 gears. But now and then I do think about a 37 but don't completely trust it and I don't want to be stuck in the middle of the woods with a broken Axl.
Awesome... light & strong!... Wish I kept my '77 ford big block shortbox... loved that truck!
Those are truly great trucks! Good parts and great looks in my opinion 👍
This is what happens when you UNLOCK your inner genius. Nicely done. I like this thinking
Instantly clicked.... Just an awesome channel and content! Keep it coming man 👊
Thanks!
I've got a re-worked JKR44 in mine. Bought it in pieces, new thick wall (3/8') DOM tube, a selection of Barnes and Ballistic mounts/truss, but otherwise stock other than 4.88's. Built it myself, and still a good penny into it. Went 8.8 out back.
I am not a jeep guy, but just wanted to say good luck striking out on your own and sharing knowledge with the world. Best of luck!
Smart video. I went to UD60’s but I really like the info in this vid. You should build one to show the process.
Thanks! I'll probably be using this build strategy but in a dana 60 later this year 👍
The 78/79 Bronco/F150 axle housings have cast wedges on the axles tubes and the can’t be removed unless you retube it. The 76-77 wedges were welded on and as you can be removed.
You're spot on with all of this! The only thing I will point out is that even though the D44 is cheaper than the D60, the overall cost to build this ultimate D44 is still huge.
I was about to go this route, but when I started adding it all up, I could get a dana44 to be just as strong as a stock D60, and stronger in some regards, but I couldn't get it nearly as strong as a D60 for the same price.
A superduty D60 with all the brakes and everything can be had for $500. It takes a TON of money to get a D44 up to even that starting point.
But it is nice to have options! Great video!
Absolutely! The ultimate d44 come with a ultimate price tag 👍
This was a helpful video. I have a set of Scout axles in my side yard to build up for my Sidekick...
A lot of people kept telling me to go Yota or d60's. Those were both much more expensive. Not to mention the d60's would be heavy for my lil' 1.6 liter motor!
I'm happy to help and I'm jealous. I've always wanted a sidekick!
Came across your channel and subscribed right away. Unbreakable Dana 44 really caught my attention. I have something going on in my rear end when driving along pavement, driving up a gravel hill to a ski hill parking lot or even driving along a gravel road with my Dana 44/Detroit Lockers/Cromonly axle or something. It snaps loud enough to make you think the rear end blew up and it almost drives you across the road to the opposite lane. Has been doing this for a while and I almost think it is happening more often as time passes. I don't drive her very much now because of the issue. 95YJ, 360 AMC V8, Holley 4 barrel, Elderbrock intake manifold, 4 speed manual, Dana 44 front and rear with Detroit lockers, Cromoly axles, 4.27 gear ratio and I currently run 35's on her. Hope you cover rear end noises, snaps, crackles, pops and the likes in one of your future videos. Keep up the good work at your new full time job.
I really appreciate the short, "If you don't know what i'm talking about, or you're new to this..." tangents. Quick , informative, doesn't distract from the rest of the content. Well done. Keep it up! I hope your adventure away from plumbing goes better than planned this year. You've made a follower out of me!
I watch a lot of your videos
Made me start building a 97 tacoma useing dana44 useing most of your idea, I never do this before but you made me want to do it
Thank you
Loving the channel Nate. I have a 1976 F250 LP D44 going into my YJ...using the Jana K4 kit. That kit is designed for LP D44 axles, the other kit (swapping D50 gears into a D44) is the HP housing kit. Keep up the great work, it takes guts to do what you're doing brutha.
Thank you! Damn, for whatever reason I thought the JK axles were high pinion lol. I bet I wont hear the end of this! 😂
@@DirtLifestyle I don't see any big deal. There's a provision from Jantz for either one (HP gets beefier D50 gears, LP gets JK D44 rear gears). Win/win, glad you are pointing out Jantz's kits...he has the coolest stuff.
@@DirtLifestyle The front axle on a JK is a high pinion BUT it has the same size ring & pinion as the Ford axles. The rear is the axle that has the larger R&P. Karl talked about all this on Pirate when he was coming out with the kits. I can give you a link to the discussion if you want. Also ARB make a 35 spline for the D44 so you can still get those 35 spline shafts if you want.
Great info. I just pick up a scout with Dana 44 front and rear. Those upgrades are now on the list.
Pretty much what I plan on doing with my 44 minus the RCVs because they are too expensive. JANTZ kit with chromoly axles. Nice to see someone actually supporting the 44. Most forums just say don't bother get a 60 when you ask for advice. Some of the GM housings are good too but they are passenger diff low pinion. Mines out of a 76 3/4 ton suburban. 3 inch circumference with 1/2 inch tubes. Should be pretty decent with 35s or 37s.
Funny because was just discussing the stock 44’s on the Jeep Gladiators and someone was asking us about just trussing it etc to beer it up instead of swapping to tons.
But in the long run, depending on your uses, it could end up being a lot more cost effective to just go to 60’s right off the bat.
Because if you swap later, you’re gonna have to switch wheels (most likely 8 lugs) more cost.
You gonna have broken or extremely abused 44’s worth less now.
You’re gonna have to pay to have more labor done etc.
There’s so many pros and cons to beefing up 44’s vs upgrading.
We are gonna push our 44’s to the absolutely MAX stock just to show exactly what they are capable of before swapping.
There’s a lot more to this and could go on and on.
You’ve covered so many good points didn’t even think about.
Gladiator Gang always beer it up! 🍻
Completely agree with all the talking points in your video. There is one thing I would add to your ultimate 44 build: a rigid cover with adjustable carrier bearing supports, if you have the steering clearance to do it. That type of cover adds a tremendous amount of rigidity to any housing.
Great suggestion 👍
Well, the one thing about video's like this... it gives me too many ideas! lol. Right now I have an LJR on 37's with chromo's and Artec truss and C-gussets. Peeps keep telling me I'm gonna break it. Which makes me watch video's like this. Haha. But being retired and on a budget it's staying like this for now. But certainly good info. for the future! Thanks Nate. Keep up the great work and trail vids! Moab in 2 weeks! Woot!
Super happy you left the plumbing, love these videos dude. Keep them coming!!
Love the channel man! Most informative Jeep channel out there imo. Keep up the great work and stay safe on the trail!
Thanks brother 👍
Best axle video I've seen. Exactly what I was looking for!!
Very well spoken and great content! Looking like my new favorite Jeep Channel. Keep up the great content!
Thank you!
I have a 79 wagoneer, front and rear 44s. Odd duck passenger drop. I want to keep the "stock" drive train but beef it up as much as possible. Don't like the way 1 tons make the tires stick way out on a waggy, and i'm only interested in running 35s. This gives me some ideas for the future, even if the cost will be high. Some of us just don't want to go to big heavy 1 tons. Thanks for sticking up for the old 44!
Awesome video. I've been looking at swapping out my D30 witha D44. Never knew which older axle would work
Exactly my case here. I drive a Sahara, so really starting from under the ground up; Little by little... Best wishes on your project. (thumbs up)
Where do you find deals like $100 d44 axles? Crawling around a junkyard? I’d love to swap on my xj but new made stuff is as much as a car.
I found both on craigslist a couple years apart. 👍
7 years on my dana 44s ZERO ISSUES on 37s under my s10. Bought a dana SD50 and a e350 semi float 60 for dumb cheap Of course all my buddies say its basically a 44. ( referring to the 50) and im gonna shit the axle shafts yadda yadda yadda. Good video man.
When everything on the inside is upgraded, the splined part of wheel hub on that style D44 will twist off. Takes a lot, but it happens.
Damn! That must take alot of force!
A lot of force, yes, but that can be solved also. The teraflex 8 lug hub runs a 35 spline stub shaft and RCV builds a kit that has a 35 spline stub shaft for the teraflex kit and 35 spline inners for the JK 44 locker with a 35 spline sleeves. This is how I have my rig setup. It’s way lighter than a D60.
even more turd polish. and a good way to have a $6000 dana 44. Also no way it's significantly lighter than a 60, after all the components are upgraded to the same physical size as a 60, and enough trusses and gussets are welded on to keep it half way straight (in the case of a JK axle)
Cooper scooper, you don’t have a cogent argument. If you’re running enough power or big enough tires with low enough gears to twist off the splines of a wheel hub, you shouldn’t be running a D44 in any iteration. Otherwise, A Currie housing ( 3” tubes and reinforced Cs) and the other guts I mentioned comes out to around 210 lbs ( I have weight it) vs a fitted out D60 at 335lbs (I have converted and weighed it too) Yes, it’s significantly lighter.
@@nicholascooper1193
He specifically states the problems with the JK axle and tells you NOT to build it (use a late 70's Ford).
And of course it's lighter.
How about suggestions for newbies. For instance, first 5 things you would suggest doing to your TJ. Starting out with V6 with Dana 35 4.10 gears on 33's. Semi budget friendly suggestions? Great videos!
I like how you have an a cam and b cam on your talking bits, it makes it look super professional. Also, I love axle videos, more would be awesome!
Thank you!
Nate
I wholeheartedly agree with you on this issue
The Dana 44 is a GREAT platform for most applications
I have upgraded my 05 TJ with Dana 44 G2 housings chromally
Shafts twin lockers
currently running 35s
I was told by all my buddies not to waste my money JUST DO 60s that’s what they all said
I like the stock width
And lower weight I have with my 44s
I also believe I can run up to a 40 in tyre without an issue however I would not be able to get it in the garage 🤣🤣🤣
Great vid keep up the great work
These are really good for builds like yours and mine. I know the garage struggle very well! Before we bought this house I was airing down to fit in the garage 😂
Great info, thank you. Looking to do some swaps myself. Just not sure what on a Sami
I don't think I'll ever go bigger than 35's on my xj. I'm looking at upgrading to a d44 from my d30 but I'm not sure I even need to do that!
Your hitting homerun’s with your video’s! Keep em coming.
Thank you!
I'm not a jeep guy but I love watching videos about this. If I ever SAS my truck I think a d60 is overkill so nice to know a 44 can be beefed up. Good video
Thanks brother!
Black magic brakes kit. Upgraded on my Rubi tj 44. Dual piston and bigger knuckle. Highly recommend.
Hey Nate,
Huge fan, the K4 kit is for low pinion 44 housings only. It’s an 8.9in ring gear that came in the rear of a JK. So it can only work on Chevy 44s, waggy 44s, all the low pinion ones. The Jana 54 is a high pinion gearset for high pinion 44s and a 9in ring gear. With that said you can put a JK carrier in an older housing and still go 35 spline. The ford hi pinion 44 is the best 44 you can get IMO. I have seen them take years of abuse on many different style rigs and put one under my SAS Hummer H3 with a 5.3 and 40s with no R&P issues. I ended up building a custom D70 front end because I got the invite for Ultimate Adventure and they were concerned about the 44 under a big rig.
Thanks again for all you do! Hope to see you at KOH! We toured the podcast guys around last time one of them came down and I heard you might go going with them!
This is a good video man! I like how you reference some of our local WA companies too. Jantz, Yukon
Thanks!
I have a '77.5 crew cab f250 with the HP 44 this really encourages me to keep the original and upgrade it. stroking the original 351m to a 7.3 as well
Full-time UA-cam Nate is the shit! Great information and being a JKUR owner I've been saying it for some time. Build the right axle with the right mods and you can make them survive.
Thanks man!
GIVE ME MORE!! Currently in a build with sleeving and trussing a JK rubicon Dana44, but keep wondering if my time and money are going to waste instead of yanking dana 60's out of a 2005 and up 2005 Ford F250... In the middle of the build, need to decide on what ball joints to go with (are the $550 DynaTrack rebuild-able joints worth the cost? or just stick with Spicer's?) Should I preemptively put chromalloy shafts in now or wait to break my stock shafts before deciding to go to RCV's or something else considering the cost? 115,000 miles on the jeep since the front axle will be getting pulled out and regeared should one just figure to replace the unit bearings just because its all out and taken apart? Running 38's on stock 3.6 and LOVE IT. Thanks!!
I've got a wagoneer Dana 44 in my garage just waiting for my Tj Dana 44 to bite the dust. It's amazing how thicker these axles are.
We did the JKR Ring and Pinion upgrade in the rear of my LJR and it is important to note I still got to use my stock TJ/LJ Rubicon locker. This is a no brainer upgrade for TJ Rubicon guys but you never see it and no one seems to know about it. Just upgrade the R&P and reuse your stock locker and chromoly or stock axle shafts. Thanks for sharing the info Nate. Hope to see you on the trail one day.
Great video!! I'm looking at axle upgrades for my XJ and wanting 44's. I don't need bigger since I run 35's, but don't want to spend money on my Dana 30.
All good info. I knew there were plenty of upgrades for the D44, but didn't realize the weak points of the newer version. I understand the lighter axle for sure. A D60 is a heavy pig. All that being said, the D60 has a bunch of upgrades as well. If you upgrade a D60 with the same parts as the ultimate D44, the only downside would be the weight.
I went D60 for my TJ. 87 F350 king pin, added a truss, conversion to the gm HD brakes from a 2004 2500. Haven't decided on what differential to use, or if I'm going to upgrade the axles right away or not.
Love the information on the front axle! Would love your input on how to build a 8.8 rear axle.
I’ve got a F250 hp44 converted to 5 lug and the axle tubes are 1/2” thick!
Beast mode 👊
Thats what I did, 79 F250 D44, Chevy outters five lug, RCV's, Yukon hubs and a Grizzly locker.
Great video, I've watched it several time for ideas. Finally building a set of Dana 44s. JL Rubicon front and JK 44 for the rear... to be put in the ZJ. Thanks for sharing.
I've always been envious of yours and Matt's 44 holding up to 40's..lol I broke a stock stub 2nd trip, had to warranty a set of yukon's and would take out a spicer u-joint every 3rd trip and tried an OX super joint and it only lasted 5 trips. Thats under a light chopped top Bronco 2 with a little 2.9L and 38's, its currently getting tons and 40's so I can probably keep breaking it like the 44 because that's how my life goes...LOL
Damn! Sounds like you need rcvs! Unfortunately dependability comes at a cost
Dirt Lifestyle RCVs are a great upgrade but the upstream weak link may be a more expensive and debilitating failure, gears?
Dang nate, just started doing my research on d44s so i can have it when my d30 goes. Your video helped alot, still confused on what year doner i should be looking for to keep the jeep width.
Its hard to stay Jeep width, Lots of aftermarket vendors make TJ or JK width housings that make it easy. There are some scout, early bronco, and wagoneer options you could look at though.
I really enjoy it when people actually know what they're talking about. Great video as always.
Now, tell us about that 1-ton project haha
Lol more info soon 👍
Hey Nate quick question can you put those axles in a little Ford Ranger without having to put a bigger Motor Inn I've got the V6 that's been working like a champ turning the vehicle into an Overland vehicle just want to make sure that I'm going to be strong enough for whatever comes up thank you and thank you for the videos
With the right gears it doesn't really matter the rig. These aren't much heavier than what you have now 👍
A lot of people been telling me just to change them out and put 8.8 but I want something a little heavier because it will be hauling a trailer around also
@@cliffordsmithey464 The ford 8.8 is a great axle. it should handle anything in a rangers weight class for towing. Only reason larger trucks have a full float rear is because they have a higher load rating.
And a proper D44 will be just as strong as the IFS that your ranger has.
@@zososldier kind of turning me into an Overland rig
@@cliffordsmithey464 You would still be hard pressed to exceed a trussed 8.8 while towing.
Dana 44 is truly the best housing for most wheeler. Excluding the jk units. Excellent video.
A new video on a Monday? Someone must have quit their job.👍
Great info Nate. I've had beefed up 44s in a TJ build before and same as you, never worried about them. In fact, like you, I beat the dickens out of them on 38s and 5.13s. Never an issue.
Personally, I've found most of the people hyping "go 60s!" are just repeating what they've heard from others and have no real world experience with 44s.
Keep em' coming. Every vid is a "must watch".👍👍👍
Lol thanks brother! Sounds like your in the d44 club too 👊
Can't wait to see the update to the video when you try to run a heavy JKU with 40's, LS swap, Atlas on D44's and beat on it. Good luck.
I've got a wagoneer front 44 and a TJ 44 rear in my TJ on 37s with lockers on both with no real problems. I'm debating building a new set though when I build my new suspension. There's a Ford HP 44 with high steer, and matching rear d60 for $400 on Facebook right now that look pretty enticing lol. My plan is slight stretch and maybe 40s down the road.
Nice! If it has the matching 60 then it should be the f250 version. Pure American beef 👍
The Jana K4 kit is for standard rotation 44s and the Jana 54 is for HP44s. Not sure if that was mentioned, I'm building another HP44 for my LJ and I'm really considering just doing the Jana 54 from the get go.
BTW I love your channel!!
Your absolutely right I messed up with the k4 recommendation. Thanks for watching brother 🤘
Great video, It was awesome seeing your jeep on the trail to sema. This answered some questions I had for sure.
Great video bud! Love hearing different ideas and ways to build things. Especially as I am just starting to build on my CJ7. Keep it up!
Hey Nate what are you thought on the JT Dana 44s? They have thicker axle tubes and bigger Cs.
I’m hoping with RCVs and a front axle truss they will hold up nicely with the 38s that I’m running.
With a truss and rcvs these new axles are beast! The specs look great but a truss is a must 👊
Excellent video and I agree with you. I love my 44 but I upgraded to a Prorock 44 with RCV’s.
Your editing is looking nice, man. Keep up the good work.
Lots of good information here Nate. I run a Dana 44 rear, think that JK ring and pinion is in it future along with 35 spline shafts. One thing ya won’t ever be able to talk me into is any kind of locker that runs on air (seen way too many buddies have leakage issues haha!) Love this channel not only for good information but your cool attitude as well, take care man.
Thanks brother! The auto lockers like a detroit are more dependable in my experience. But it's really nice to turn the lockers off! Lol. It all depends on the build. I think I'm going to keep selectable on my tj but use automatics for my jeep truck. 👍 thanks for watching
Good content. I replaced the axles in my jku with a Dynatrac serious performance set. Sold the stock 30 front. Thinking of keeping the rear 44. After the week at EJS and seeing the cool rigs I’m tempted to build a tj type buggy. Probably pushing it but a dynatrac trail leader package would be a cool 44 set in a light build with 40’s.
Great info on the 44 and congrats on going solo. Ford guy here, but have been enjoying your vids for a while now.
My personal favorite video so far! So informative; did not realize some of these upgrades were available for 44's!
Love axle swap information, theres so many ways to go its hard to choose. Did not know you were running one really impressed.
Great video. Any way you could make a video with your experiences on different brand dana 44 balljoints .
I don't have any experience unfortunately. Because of the small scrub radius on my build I don't put much pressure on ball joints. I replace them when I got the axle and haven't had to since. 👍
Great job. Really like the way you explain everything. Show that you know what your talking about.
As always great video brother. Another big Benny of selectable hubs is no more replacement of unit-bearings. Instead just a simple service and roll.
It would be great to see an ifs to solid axle swap but I know that takes alot of cash
fernando cabral agreed! Toyota preferably
Yes please
In my opinion there is already plenty of toyota. I would suggest something that is rarely seen done. For example an older nissan
Y'all can do it to my 96 Bronco
Doesn't take that much cash. A junk yard 44/50/60, junk yard leaf springs, maybe a junk yard steering box (if said truck had rack and pinion) and some builder parts tabs. The most expensive single part would be a custom drive shaft.
Depending on the truck and build, it could be done for under $2k.
The Jantz kits use regular Dana 44 3.73 and down lockers so you don't get the option of JK lockers also I think the k4 kit only works on low pinion axles so you have to use the 54 kit for high pinion 44s.
You are correct on the low pinion part. I made a mistake
@@DirtLifestyle I only know because I am looking at both as options for my LJ I have a HP F250 D44 (boat anchor) that was in my XJ and the LJ came with a rear 44.
Thanks for this video! I've got my shopping list started. ;) I've got TWO ford kingpin 60 housings in my shop right now, and im really at odds with myself on what to do with them. You've got me thinking... Sell em both, and get a 44 front. Then swap the 44 and the d60 rear i also have sitting, into the jeep. I feel like a 60/44 combo would be perfect for my style of wheeling.
Not a bad plan!
The Dana 50 gears are for high pinion housing like your 79 F-250. The JK 44 is your for your low pinion housings, using the rear JK44 gear set. The HP JK44 pinion is shorter and will not fit the old school 44 housing.
First step I've got to get a set of power stop calipers & roters. My 2011 JK
Feels weak in the nose for stopping power. Good info video.
I'm looking forward to learning from you in your new "job"...question...if you were going to by a TJ Wrangler and do some restoration work to freshen it up (engine, paint, interior etc) and use mainly on the road but be highly capable off road too.... would you limit your search to a Rubicon or buy any of the other models and do the changes necessary to bring it up to the capabilities of a Rubicon?
It would depend on your desired size. Having d44 front and rear takes care of alot of the guess work when selecting axles. You've have somthing very capable right out of the box. All it needs is gears and 35s. Now you can hit 90% of the trails in the us. The bummer about a sport or an x is your looking at getting new front/rear axles and a new tcase to match the same amount capability. Food for thought 👍
@@DirtLifestyle Thank you...kinda what I thought to be the case
I wish this video would have been out b4 I just built my 44 last year. Gotta caged xj and I stuffed it with Yukon but I knew nothing about the pinion upgrade definitely would have went that way
Great video Nate, I was considering Dana 60s for my Rubicon, but I think I'll stay with 44s. Thanks!
Are there "static" sounds in the background of this video or is it just me? otherwise, great video!
Didn't hear it until you said it. Now I can't NOT hear it.
I was thinking you had tinnitus.
@@jesseneal9584 Sorry, I hate it when that happens!
I hear it too.