@@doug6885 tell me about it I've got almost 220k on my stock YJ axles and with a V8. I would be crazy excited to get some Dynotracs installed by the company itself. Love your JK.
Steve! He's such a nice dude! Spent hours talking at the dynatrac event about axles, differentials, and just life stuff in general. So many great people work at dynatrac
Love my PR44! I did 35 spline RCVs, ARB lockers, 5.13 gears, Reid knucks and I've had zero issues, everything you'd want out of a standard D44 BUT...3 years down the line, I regret not going with a 60 or at the very least, 44/60 hybrid which Dynatrac offers as well. Reason being. If I knew back then that my needs and rig were going to evolve like they have I wouldn't find myself in a situation where I have to upgrade my upgrade. Back when I first got my PR44 I would've sworn with my hand on a bible that I'd never need to go bigger than 37s...I'm sure we all know how the story goes from there. With that being said, PR44 is still the best in it's class, bar none.
It's difficult to know how your build will evolve 3 years down the road. BUT, you'll be able to sell the 3 year old PR44 easily and recoup much of the cost of the 60.
@@TrailRecon in this day and time, 40s are the new 35. It isn't necessarily a matter of having to go bigger because that's what's trendy but when you have rigs running 43" stickies, they are changing the topography of the trails. You damn near need to run 40s out of necessity because everyone else running big rubber is excavating the dirt and rearranging the lay of the land
Have a 2016 2 door sport JK for my wife. We also upgraded, but to a Currie built 44. As with the Dynatrac, it is much beefier all around. We also left the rear housing alone, but swapped in the ARB 35 spline Locker and some 35 spline shafts. We had already Broken a stock rear 30 spline shaft and both front shafts on 34 inch tires. This new combo has been able to hold up to hard wheeling and 35 inch tires and I am no stranger to the gas pedal.
Don't mean to steer people away, but "wayalife" has amazing videos about dynatrac axles. They also have some in depth videos that might answer some questions
Awesome what I really love about your upgrades is you don't do crazy stuff in your upgrades. You maintain a normalcy which transfers to affordable. Also Jim comes across as very rational even though he builds some insane axles as well.
Brad thank you so much for sharing your upgrade/maintenance experience. Lots of questions answered, and some I didn’t know I had. Also thank Jim as well as the Dynatrac crew for visualizing the process... Any time your wanting to add a factory video I’m all in.
Its so COOL to witness the evolution of one man with a passion.......your attention to detail and delivery of content is in many ways beyond most professionally done pieces, thanks for sharing and wish you continued success.
Awesome video Brad! The information helps us all know our Jeeps a little better each time. You and Marco are the inspiration for the gradual transformation of my 2016 JKU Rubicon into an Overlanding vehicle. Thank you!
Great video. Not only is it great to see made in the USA but also California as well. The explanation for the death wobble was excellent. I was on a freeway when an XJ right next to me got the death wobble.
@@TrailRecon wheeling/rock crawling once and awhile is hardly abuse (well, unless your an idiot and don't know how to drive offroad). Draily driving in 3rd world countries is more of an abuse on these rigs... After all, I am sure that's why you call yourself a overlander and not a rock crawler..
You're juz awesum Brad... Love from INDIA .... i like mostly you and Marko on frame esp when its cookin time ... You expplain things in a very crisp & clear way ... Keep doing it Buddy ... One of the best Channel for Overlanding on JEEP ...
Oh my I am just learning so much and in an enjoyable way, this is addictive viewing thanks Brad the editing and film making is about as good as it gets too. Thanks for inspirational TrailRecon.
My wife just experienced death wobble about a week ago in her JK . It scared to crap out of her . So I sent it to 4 Wheel Parts and they found that the ball joints upper and lower plus the steering stabilizer were shot. So we had them replace all of them plus the stabilizer and $1,100.00 later it drives better than when it was new according to my wife . No more death wobble. 4 Wheel Parts said on a scale of one to ten , ten being totally shot her ball joints were at a twelve . I'm so happy they found the problem and fixed it .
@@jeepwrecognizejeep1391 I agree with you . Just had them change it because it was leaking. I forgot to mention they also changed the drag link because it was totally frozen. Wouldn't even budge with heat applied.
I'm glad I watched this. Previously I watched a video of "Wayalife" of a similar install at Dynatrac as well and because his axle seemed to be installed unpainted or rattle can painted at best, I questioned the quality. But your axle seems to be coated pretty nicely, so all thumbs up!
I was thinking you were going to say a Dana 60, but I’d only go up to the pro rock 44 also but that would be a huge upgrade for my JLU sports s. Awesome video! It’s been awhile since I’ve watch a video. Really have been wanting to watch another video talking about the pro rock 44. Thank you for the awesome video Brad!
TrailRecon follow up from Denver to LA transplant. Just got a 2018 Sport S and mapping out my build. Thoughts on upgrading stock rear with gears/lockers/shafts versus plug and play ProRock 44? I’m unsure if it’s worth adding to smaller axle versus new upgrades axle. Great channel sir!
@joed596 I would think since the wheelbase on a Jeep is so short, whatever the front axle hits so will the back axle. Plus the rear axle is always in constant use and the front isn't.
The stock rear axle uses bigger diameter tubes with greater wall thickness. Typically the only failure on them is the rosette welds breaking allowing the tubes to spin in the diff housing. The more common issue in the rear is bending the axle flanges, which is an issue with all semi-float housings.
I'm no mechanic and not certified. But my opinion is the front axle is asked to do a lot more for the rig. 1st, it has to "pull" the vehicle over an obstacle instead of the rear having to "push". When going over an obstacle, it has to climb it and pull thousands of pounds over it. 2nd, the front axle has to steer the vehicle while pulling the vehicle. Most times when people talk about "off camber" positions, it's the front axle that takes the brunt of that work.....also, when people talk about 'letting her eat' and they hit an obstacle hard and fast, the front axle also takes the hit, most times you'll see somone do that and before the rear axle clears the obstacle, they've let off the throttle.
Nice walk thru. I'm sure you'll be happy with the Dynatrac. I'm still running a stock Dana 30 on my 2016 JKUS, but at some point I want to change the gearing and switch to a 44 in the front. That will hopefully be a Dynatrac. Jim seems like a great guy. He was on stage at the Friday night raffle at EJS back in April and he gave away one of his 44's (the first ticket they drew wasn't there, so they had to draw a second ticket- his loss). Safe Travels and God Bless!
@@mikehoffman3690 Agreed. I have there rear tire carrier and that thing is stout and has help up for 5+ years with 35's bouncing around. Not huge tires, but a good product none the less.
Great upgrade Brad. I ran my OEM D44 with gussets and 5.38 gears since new in 2011 and had about 65k on it when I bought a blank ProRock 44 housing about 4 years ago. I upgraded to the ProRock44 knowing that I would be stepping to 37's eventually and we repurposed the OEM D44 into my son's 2004 WJ project last year. I caught a LOT of slack from people about how my ProRock 44 won't hold up now with my 425 HP LS engine but now with over 13k miles on the new power train and 4.56:1 geared ProRock with 37" tires it works perfect. I don't overland but my JKUR is heavy @ 6k pounds due to the tools and supplies that I carry but I don't feel I need one-ton axles to do what I do. I feel as long as you drive reasonably and don't flog on your Jeep the ProRock 44 is more than adequate but I'm in the minority in that thinking. My JKUR is my daily driver that has just over 100k miles on the clock and we flat tow it behind our 40' coach to various Jeep rallies and gatherings and I can either drive it or tow it with confidence. Again, great upgrade and enjoy the video. Mike
It sure is Brad, although I drive it like a baby carriage. Off-road I feel like it’s cheating and it’s so mild and docile for daily driving it’s like driving a Denali.
It's great that a PR44 has held up and I hope it lasts the lifespan of your rig but it's still not something I recommend to someone if they were considering doing an LS swap. That's a lot of torque and stress your putting on a 8.5" ring gear.
Jeep Wrecognize Jeep thanks but this is far from my first rodeo dealing with HP and axles. I drive accordingly and know how hard to push it and when to back off. If I drove it hard or flogged on it that would be a different story.
C'mon Brad, you are upgrading because you need too, you advanced beyond the capabilities of the stock D44. It's not because of the wheelin you do. It's the wheelin you do with all that extra weight. Rubi's wheel just as hard but w/o that weight so their front D44 lasts for the life of the Jeep. It's a nice and needed upgrade. Now it's time to upgrade the rear!! Only a matter of time.
I wish you would have asked Jim why they don't put a drain plug in the ProRock 44. I didn't think of it before I got mine and was really annoyed to discover its absence.
Absolutely love my Pro Rock 44 front. It has done everything I want it too. I CAN explore with confidence. Great choice! You'll love it! I've definitely used it on hard trails, just changed the fluid and everything is perfect. Really looking forward to pro float 60 rear axle someday.
Crazy was sitting here reading about different axles etc perfect timing on the video awesome axle choice love this technical stuff on gearing etc congratulations on the sweet upgrade she looks good as always be safe
the rear axle does as much work as the front also most of the weight is on the rear , Whats the betting it has problems now thanks for all the knowledge and brilliant videos take care have fun from the UK
Nice upgrade Brad! Great catch on the broken u-joint. So much better done at a shop or home rather than on the trail! I see a rear Dana 60 upgrade video in the future for Trail Recon. Have a great Thanksgiving with friends and family Brad.
You should transform your jk to a complete rock crawler like titan. You already have an overland rig now you gonna have a rock crawler! Nice video brad
I actually beat you to an upgrade! lol Just went to the PR44 a few weeks ago. Went with RCV's , Reid racing knuckles, and HD ball joints while I was doing it, along with finally re-gearing to 4.88s. Feeling extremely confident now as supposed to always worrying. Good stuff
Nice upgrade. Made me cringe to see you put the old unit bearings back on a prorock 44 though. I would have had to do a hub conversion. With all the road miles you do, a freespin locking type hub conversion would have been well worth the money and peace of mind. That is my favorite part about my prorock 60. Either way, great channel and great content, keep it up.
I see you have Steersmarts "Yeti" drag link and tie rod, good stuff. Next upgrade, some Reid racing knuckles and some RCV axles ??? From Russia, with LOVE......
Awesome video. I’ve actually been waiting on Black Friday to catch a good deal on an axle to replace the front. I was bouncing back and forth between dana ultimate 44 and a PR 44. Think I’m going to go the PR 44 route. It was crazy to see this video before Black Friday to help steer my direction to Dynatrac. Thanks.
You took your Wrangler to Dynatrack which, from what I've heard and read, is probably the highest quality axle assembly manufacturer in the United States today. These guys know their business. From what I've seen of their prices for axle assemblies shipped in crates, the prices are quite reasonable. I have, however, one question: Why did you decide to reuse many of your "old" (100,000 mile) components (for the OEM parts) rather than "just" purchase an entirely new Dynatrack 44 front axle assembly? (The obvious reason is cost, but if I'm correct, I doubt an entirely new assembly including chrome-molly axle shafts and new differential assembly would have added more than about $1,500 to $1,800 to the price of the modification. And, if you deduct the labor costs for the transfer of "old" (after-market chrome molly half shafts, with less than 100,000 miles on them), and the original differential, you would probably be talking a price difference of $1,200 to $1,600. From watching many of your other videos---all of which have been superb!---I suspect the reason you stuck with some of your tried and true components was based on some factor that outweighs the cost alone.) Am I correct? Whatever the answer may be, you are saving money, and you will have a well-engineered front axle assembly on your Jeep Wrangler. Excellent video with superb advice from you and Dynatrack's experts. Thank you very much for another first-class lesson on a desirable and popular modification for a Jeep Wrangler. Andy McKane, Molokai, Hawaii.
I was going to say it's not an upgrade unless it's G2. I bought a Teraflex TF44 and so far so good but I regret not getting G2. At the time I bought the TF44 I believe G2 didn't have a right hand drive version or they were a little more expensive. I don't remember. I even looked at getting Atomic axles but apparently they give the equivalent of a 6" lift which is illegal here in Australia.
I had a set of bfg tires way to long. It caused the meanest death wobble. Jim is right about that. Speaking of tires. What happened to your Coopers? I am glad to see you didn't go overboard like Kevin and Brittney. The dana 44 is more than adequate for most people.
and you think a PR44 would've been "adequate" for what Brittany and Kevin do in Stepchild? A PR44 wouldn't hold up with a Hemi on 40s. They wouldn't have made it pass Day 2 on Trail To SEMA with a PR44.
@@apexpredator_jku Kevin and Britney's JKU was doing great until they added a turbo. I've been through the motor swap with a 71 1310 series IH pickup truck. It has a 455 oldsmobile with a turbo 400. 480 hp, 575 ft pounds of torque on the tires. My ball knuckle 44 still survives. My turbo 400, np205 and rear dana 60 have had issues. I'm also running 37's. It's been this way since 2003. So yes, there's a point of going overboard. As I said before, the Dana 44 is more than adequate for most people.
@@cespool I'm not debating that it a PR44 isn't sufficient for most folks, I agree...In regards to LiteBrite, I dont think they went "overboard". They're lugging around all their belongings cross country, hauling a RZR, that alone justifies a Hemi. Factor in the type of wheeling they do, 40" tires...1 Tons was the right call. They made logical upgrades out of necessity, albeit from their own doing with the turbo fail.
@@apexpredator_jku my choice would have been the pr60 front and rear. Especially after seeing how many Ultimate adventures they've held up to. Some rigs with portals, some with 54's. I think that would have made a perfect combination for them. Just my opinion though.
@@cespool If I was looking to get the best bang for the buck without breaking the bank, that's the route I would've went too. Not a big fan of semi-float but I could have piece of mind with 40 spline shafts but I don't have a "business relationship" with Dynatrac so hypothetically speaking, if they could get an Elite XD60/80 package for the same price a regular Joe Schmo would pay for a PR60/60 package I'd go "overboard" too.
Hey Brad when yeah doing the rear axle upgrade? Seems front and rear at 100,000 miles should both be in need of upgrading.I love my pro rock 44 on my JL and I am planing on upgrading the back to in a few months to a 60.
Hey Brad, thanks for the great video. Your work is awesome. I need to go thru my LC axles right now. I drained the front and it looked like silver metallic paint. Something seems to be up with that. 🤑
Thanks Brad. I read the comments on the 'rear' axle and saw that you may upgrade later. I'm curious what you may select? Doesn't look like Dynatrac has a D44 rear axle assembly, would you go to a D60 rear?
Asking...because I'm getting ridiculously different answers--and I really don't know : ) ...if a person was to buy -ready to go- front and rear axles, say pro-rock--etc. 44 or 60s (that come with the upgraded axle shafts, gearing choice, etc.) and I see on the website 4k for each axle for example on the 44's...what should a person expect to pay at a shop to have both axles done + labor...???
Small correction shipmate - you don't adjust toe with the track bar.
100% Correct... I misspoke! You adjust the toe with the tie rod! Thank you!
@@TrailRecon It's easy to get excited with a new front axle. :)
@@doug6885 tell me about it I've got almost 220k on my stock YJ axles and with a V8. I would be crazy excited to get some Dynotracs installed by the company itself. Love your JK.
Steve! He's such a nice dude! Spent hours talking at the dynatrac event about axles, differentials, and just life stuff in general. So many great people work at dynatrac
Great guy and super knowledgable!
Love my PR44! I did 35 spline RCVs, ARB lockers, 5.13 gears, Reid knucks and I've had zero issues, everything you'd want out of a standard D44 BUT...3 years down the line, I regret not going with a 60 or at the very least, 44/60 hybrid which Dynatrac offers as well. Reason being. If I knew back then that my needs and rig were going to evolve like they have I wouldn't find myself in a situation where I have to upgrade my upgrade. Back when I first got my PR44 I would've sworn with my hand on a bible that I'd never need to go bigger than 37s...I'm sure we all know how the story goes from there.
With that being said, PR44 is still the best in it's class, bar none.
I said I'd never go larger than 35's and here I am running 38's and considering 40's! I hear you!
It's difficult to know how your build will evolve 3 years down the road. BUT, you'll be able to sell the 3 year old PR44 easily and recoup much of the cost of the 60.
@@TrailRecon in this day and time, 40s are the new 35. It isn't necessarily a matter of having to go bigger because that's what's trendy but when you have rigs running 43" stickies, they are changing the topography of the trails. You damn near need to run 40s out of necessity because everyone else running big rubber is excavating the dirt and rearranging the lay of the land
TrailRecon tell us more about those 38’s please
Very informative thanks Brad and Steve
Have a 2016 2 door sport JK for my wife. We also upgraded, but to a Currie built 44. As with the Dynatrac, it is much beefier all around. We also left the rear housing alone, but swapped in the ARB 35 spline Locker and some 35 spline shafts. We had already Broken a stock rear 30 spline shaft and both front shafts on 34 inch tires. This new combo has been able to hold up to hard wheeling and 35 inch tires and I am no stranger to the gas pedal.
It’s nice to have these videos, where I can actually learn how things work, thanks Brad!!
I'm glad it was helpful!
Don't mean to steer people away, but "wayalife" has amazing videos about dynatrac axles. They also have some in depth videos that might answer some questions
that owner seems very legit and transparent. Ill think of these first when upgrading. Great Vid. !
Awesome what I really love about your upgrades is you don't do crazy stuff in your upgrades.
You maintain a normalcy which transfers to affordable.
Also Jim comes across as very rational even though he builds some insane axles as well.
Thank you! Jim is a great guy, I really enjoyed our conversations off camera.
"Affordable" 🤣🤣🤣
Your videos are TOP Notch!! You are great to watch and learn from! Keep doing your thing!!
Your awesome my guy! Incredibly humble and motivating. My wife and I truly appreciate your content. Good stuff!
I appreciate that!
May be one of your best videos. Very thorough and extremely informative. I could listen to you and Jim go on for a whole afternoon. Great job Brad.
Brad thank you so much for sharing your upgrade/maintenance experience. Lots of questions answered, and some I didn’t know I had. Also thank Jim as well as the Dynatrac crew for visualizing the process...
Any time your wanting to add a factory video I’m all in.
I've had dynatrac's ProRock 60s front and rear for about 10 years. Never a problem...
Just another veteran here, I freaking love your videos bro!!
Great Up-Grade Brad....My Dream Front Axle.... Some day when the $$$$ are there! 😃
Its so COOL to witness the evolution of one man with a passion.......your attention to detail and delivery of content is in many ways beyond most professionally done pieces, thanks for sharing and wish you continued success.
Thank you! It's been a blast wheeling and building this Jeep over the years.
Thanks for sharing Brad. Peace of mind is a good thing too!
I’m about to upgrade my front axle! And add some ARB lockers! Love playing on my Jeep! And you inspire me to get it done! ❤️🐞
Awesome video Brad! The information helps us all know our Jeeps a little better each time. You and Marco are the inspiration for the gradual transformation of my 2016 JKU Rubicon into an Overlanding vehicle. Thank you!
Thank you so much!
Awesome channel. You were the CMC at Parris island back in 2011 when I worked at NH Beaufort. Good to see!
his work is very neat and precise, his tools are also very proper. I like to see it
The precision of the Ring and Pinion installation was pretty impressive!
Awesome video. Many thanks to owner of Dynatracs
Great video. Not only is it great to see made in the USA but also California as well.
The explanation for the death wobble was excellent. I was on a freeway when an XJ right next to me got the death wobble.
I highly doubt these axles have any real abuse to them. This is the most tame/calm off road channel on UA-cam.
You have missed some videos over the years like this one. ua-cam.com/video/2MyXAsI7fM4/v-deo.html
@@TrailRecon wheeling/rock crawling once and awhile is hardly abuse (well, unless your an idiot and don't know how to drive offroad). Draily driving in 3rd world countries is more of an abuse on these rigs... After all, I am sure that's why you call yourself a overlander and not a rock crawler..
@@LANDCRUISERLIFE give the guy a brake bro, those axles arnt that strong for a 5000+ rig
he said in the video he's had to repair them because they're getting damaged. the stress of big tires will do that especially off road
You're juz awesum Brad... Love from INDIA .... i like mostly you and Marko on frame esp when its cookin time ... You expplain things in a very crisp & clear way ... Keep doing it Buddy ... One of the best Channel for Overlanding on JEEP ...
Brad, great video. I think Jim at Dynatrac puts out the best axles out there. Good choice. Thanks
Great video, and thank you for supporting a great company and a great guy. Dynatrac is awesome!
Seems like a good time to replace the brakes.
Oh my I am just learning so much and in an enjoyable way, this is addictive viewing thanks Brad the editing and film making is about as good as it gets too. Thanks for inspirational TrailRecon.
Always love you videos Brad. One thing, it is not “chomping” at the bit. It is actually “champing” at the bit.
Great upgrade. Love my ProRock! Now I just need to get one for the rear.
No I love that Hecho en USA. Man, I just also love well made stuff! Nice. Wow Brad, those old boys do good work! Love it.
Great video, Brad! Thanks for sharing your Dynatrac in-house experience with us all.
Excellent information. You had great access to the facility and asked the right questions. That's a great upgrade.
It is good to know some of the issues concerning axles. Thanks for the knowledge.
Great video Brad, nice to see you only replaced the housing and didnt just throw new parts at it. Making the process more affordable.👍
I think this is a very practical route for most folks. Thank you!
My wife just experienced death wobble about a week ago in her JK . It scared to crap out of her . So I sent it to 4 Wheel Parts and they found that the ball joints upper and lower plus the steering stabilizer were shot. So we had them replace all of them plus the stabilizer and $1,100.00 later it drives better than when it was new according to my wife . No more death wobble. 4 Wheel Parts said on a scale of one to ten , ten being totally shot her ball joints were at a twelve . I'm so happy they found the problem and fixed it .
Steering Stabilizer has nothing to do with death wobble...if anything it just masks it. Technically, you don't even need one.
@@jeepwrecognizejeep1391 I agree with you . Just had them change it because it was leaking. I forgot to mention they also changed the drag link because it was totally frozen. Wouldn't even budge with heat applied.
I'm glad I watched this.
Previously I watched a video of "Wayalife" of a similar install at Dynatrac as well and because his axle seemed to be installed unpainted or rattle can painted at best, I questioned the quality. But your axle seems to be coated pretty nicely, so all thumbs up!
Great video! Jim really knows his stuff 👍🏼
I was thinking you were going to say a Dana 60, but I’d only go up to the pro rock 44 also but that would be a huge upgrade for my JLU sports s.
Awesome video! It’s been awhile since I’ve watch a video. Really have been wanting to watch another video talking about the pro rock 44. Thank you for the awesome video Brad!
I'm still learning so pardon my question. Why does just the front axle need upgrading and not the rear? Thank you! Cheers from Denver Colorado
The rear is something I may consider doing down the road.
TrailRecon follow up from Denver to LA transplant. Just got a 2018 Sport S and mapping out my build. Thoughts on upgrading stock rear with gears/lockers/shafts versus plug and play ProRock 44? I’m unsure if it’s worth adding to smaller axle versus new upgrades axle. Great channel sir!
@joed596 I would think since the wheelbase on a Jeep is so short, whatever the front axle hits so will the back axle. Plus the rear axle is always in constant use and the front isn't.
The stock rear axle uses bigger diameter tubes with greater wall thickness. Typically the only failure on them is the rosette welds breaking allowing the tubes to spin in the diff housing. The more common issue in the rear is bending the axle flanges, which is an issue with all semi-float housings.
I'm no mechanic and not certified. But my opinion is the front axle is asked to do a lot more for the rig. 1st, it has to "pull" the vehicle over an obstacle instead of the rear having to "push". When going over an obstacle, it has to climb it and pull thousands of pounds over it. 2nd, the front axle has to steer the vehicle while pulling the vehicle. Most times when people talk about "off camber" positions, it's the front axle that takes the brunt of that work.....also, when people talk about 'letting her eat' and they hit an obstacle hard and fast, the front axle also takes the hit, most times you'll see somone do that and before the rear axle clears the obstacle, they've let off the throttle.
Mad Jeff Goldblum vibes from this guy. I dig it.
Nice walk thru. I'm sure you'll be happy with the Dynatrac. I'm still running a stock Dana 30 on my 2016 JKUS, but at some point I want to change the gearing and switch to a 44 in the front. That will hopefully be a Dynatrac. Jim seems like a great guy. He was on stage at the Friday night raffle at EJS back in April and he gave away one of his 44's (the first ticket they drew wasn't there, so they had to draw a second ticket- his loss). Safe Travels and God Bless!
I love watching your videos. Watching them makes me want a jeep even more. Thank you
We opted to upgrade to a Tera44 from the stock Dana30. Regeared from 3.21 to 4.56. It is a vast improvement.
We have great experience with Teraflex products. Kinda brand loyal.
@@mikehoffman3690 Agreed. I have there rear tire carrier and that thing is stout and has help up for 5+ years with 35's bouncing around. Not huge tires, but a good product none the less.
Great upgrade Brad. I ran my OEM D44 with gussets and 5.38 gears since new in 2011 and had about 65k on it when I bought a blank ProRock 44 housing about 4 years ago. I upgraded to the ProRock44 knowing that I would be stepping to 37's eventually and we repurposed the OEM D44 into my son's 2004 WJ project last year. I caught a LOT of slack from people about how my ProRock 44 won't hold up now with my 425 HP LS engine but now with over 13k miles on the new power train and 4.56:1 geared ProRock with 37" tires it works perfect. I don't overland but my JKUR is heavy @ 6k pounds due to the tools and supplies that I carry but I don't feel I need one-ton axles to do what I do. I feel as long as you drive reasonably and don't flog on your Jeep the ProRock 44 is more than adequate but I'm in the minority in that thinking. My JKUR is my daily driver that has just over 100k miles on the clock and we flat tow it behind our 40' coach to various Jeep rallies and gatherings and I can either drive it or tow it with confidence.
Again, great upgrade and enjoy the video.
Mike
Great to hear your 44 is holding up... I'll be that LS is fun to drive!
It sure is Brad, although I drive it like a baby carriage. Off-road I feel like it’s cheating and it’s so mild and docile for daily driving it’s like driving a Denali.
It's great that a PR44 has held up and I hope it lasts the lifespan of your rig but it's still not something I recommend to someone if they were considering doing an LS swap. That's a lot of torque and stress your putting on a 8.5" ring gear.
Jeep Wrecognize Jeep thanks but this is far from my first rodeo dealing with HP and axles. I drive accordingly and know how hard to push it and when to back off. If I drove it hard or flogged on it that would be a different story.
C'mon Brad, you are upgrading because you need too, you advanced beyond the capabilities of the stock D44. It's not because of the wheelin you do. It's the wheelin you do with all that extra weight. Rubi's wheel just as hard but w/o that weight so their front D44 lasts for the life of the Jeep.
It's a nice and needed upgrade. Now it's time to upgrade the rear!! Only a matter of time.
i really appreciate the production quality of trail recon vids.
I wish you would have asked Jim why they don't put a drain plug in the ProRock 44. I didn't think of it before I got mine and was really annoyed to discover its absence.
I was hoping to see a d60 going in but my dreams were crushed when you started tearing down your stock d44.
Absolutely love my Pro Rock 44 front. It has done everything I want it too. I CAN explore with confidence. Great choice! You'll love it! I've definitely used it on hard trails, just changed the fluid and everything is perfect. Really looking forward to pro float 60 rear axle someday.
Great video Brad! Really enjoyed listening to you and Jim talk about this stuff. 👍
Jim has so much knowledge, it's great to pick his brain!
Crazy was sitting here reading about different axles etc perfect timing on the video awesome axle choice love this technical stuff on gearing etc congratulations on the sweet upgrade she looks good as always be safe
Cracking vlog Brad. Very informative. Thanks.
Good thing to know to how to maintain your jeep
I saw you & Marco at SEMA in the Dynatrac booth it was fairly obvious what company you were going with for the upgrade.
Thanks for this useful and informative video Brad and of course,congrats for your new axel.👍
Nice! They are building a pro rock 44 for my TJ right now. Pretty excited to get it installed.
I bet Jim has some crazy off-road story’s
Great and informative video. Really like the axle. Enjoy the Jeep
the rear axle does as much work as the front also most of the weight is on the rear , Whats the betting it has problems now thanks for all the knowledge and brilliant videos take care have fun from the UK
Nice upgrade Brad! Great catch on the broken u-joint. So much better done at a shop or home rather than on the trail! I see a rear Dana 60 upgrade video in the future for Trail Recon. Have a great Thanksgiving with friends and family Brad.
Thank you! I'm so glad we found the u-joint before I was in the middle of nowhere.
You should transform your jk to a complete rock crawler like titan. You already have an overland rig now you gonna have a rock crawler! Nice video brad
Great video as always.
I actually beat you to an upgrade! lol Just went to the PR44 a few weeks ago. Went with RCV's , Reid racing knuckles, and HD ball joints while I was doing it, along with finally re-gearing to 4.88s. Feeling extremely confident now as supposed to always worrying. Good stuff
Nice upgrade. Made me cringe to see you put the old unit bearings back on a prorock 44 though. I would have had to do a hub conversion. With all the road miles you do, a freespin locking type hub conversion would have been well worth the money and peace of mind. That is my favorite part about my prorock 60. Either way, great channel and great content, keep it up.
Axle weight difference, guessing the custom differential covers are heavier than stock? Great video!
Congrats MC!
I see you have Steersmarts "Yeti" drag link and tie rod, good stuff. Next upgrade, some Reid racing knuckles and some RCV axles ???
From Russia, with LOVE......
Nicely done!... thanks for your videos
that JK axle set would be perfect for the XJ
Great video great axle
Hour and a half to Orange County. Thanks for reminding me of California driving. LOL!
I am surprised you didn’t just go to the pro-rock 60. I would hate to have to spend money to upgrade again later.
Congrats my friend, that is a sweet setup! Burly for sure ! take care!
Very nice upgrade!
New camera? Video quality looks GREAT!
Awesome video. I’ve actually been waiting on Black Friday to catch a good deal on an axle to replace the front. I was bouncing back and forth between dana ultimate 44 and a PR 44. Think I’m going to go the PR 44 route. It was crazy to see this video before Black Friday to help steer my direction to Dynatrac. Thanks.
I hope you can catch a great deal!
Awsome brad I'm so jelly!
Great videos Brad! Many positive takeaways... only one non-positive and that’s the dent in the wallet. At least the dent is for a good cause.
You took your Wrangler to Dynatrack which, from what I've heard and read, is probably the highest quality axle assembly manufacturer in the United States today. These guys know their business. From what I've seen of their prices for axle assemblies shipped in crates, the prices are quite reasonable. I have, however, one question: Why did you decide to reuse many of your "old" (100,000 mile) components (for the OEM parts) rather than "just" purchase an entirely new Dynatrack 44 front axle assembly? (The obvious reason is cost, but if I'm correct, I doubt an entirely new assembly including chrome-molly axle shafts and new differential assembly would have added more than about $1,500 to $1,800 to the price of the modification. And, if you deduct the labor costs for the transfer of "old" (after-market chrome molly half shafts, with less than 100,000 miles on them), and the original differential, you would probably be talking a price difference of $1,200 to $1,600. From watching many of your other videos---all of which have been superb!---I suspect the reason you stuck with some of your tried and true components was based on some factor that outweighs the cost alone.) Am I correct? Whatever the answer may be, you are saving money, and you will have a well-engineered front axle assembly on your Jeep Wrangler. Excellent video with superb advice from you and Dynatrack's experts. Thank you very much for another first-class lesson on a desirable and popular modification for a Jeep Wrangler. Andy McKane, Molokai, Hawaii.
I was going to say it's not an upgrade unless it's G2. I bought a Teraflex TF44 and so far so good but I regret not getting G2. At the time I bought the TF44 I believe G2 didn't have a right hand drive version or they were a little more expensive. I don't remember. I even looked at getting Atomic axles but apparently they give the equivalent of a 6" lift which is illegal here in Australia.
Very nice upgrade! Do you have a video descibing the switch to the patagonias? What size?
Congrats on the upgrade! Thanks for all the info 🍻
Have you seen the Iveco daily 4x4. Gearing allows 100:1 ratio
Im shocked that you didnt go with some locking hubs too...Looks good tho...
Vitamin B ...well worth it.
Where can we find unbreakable underneath protection suspension, axle etc. Thicker n stronger
I just ditched my d35 and now I need to truss my front axle so if I drop off a lip I don't bend it🤙
I had a set of bfg tires way to long. It caused the meanest death wobble. Jim is right about that. Speaking of tires. What happened to your Coopers? I am glad to see you didn't go overboard like Kevin and Brittney. The dana 44 is more than adequate for most people.
and you think a PR44 would've been "adequate" for what Brittany and Kevin do in Stepchild? A PR44 wouldn't hold up with a Hemi on 40s. They wouldn't have made it pass Day 2 on Trail To SEMA with a PR44.
@@apexpredator_jku Kevin and Britney's JKU was doing great until they added a turbo. I've been through the motor swap with a 71 1310 series IH pickup truck. It has a 455 oldsmobile with a turbo 400. 480 hp, 575 ft pounds of torque on the tires. My ball knuckle 44 still survives. My turbo 400, np205 and rear dana 60 have had issues. I'm also running 37's. It's been this way since 2003. So yes, there's a point of going overboard. As I said before, the Dana 44 is more than adequate for most people.
@@cespool I'm not debating that it a PR44 isn't sufficient for most folks, I agree...In regards to LiteBrite, I dont think they went "overboard". They're lugging around all their belongings cross country, hauling a RZR, that alone justifies a Hemi. Factor in the type of wheeling they do, 40" tires...1 Tons was the right call. They made logical upgrades out of necessity, albeit from their own doing with the turbo fail.
@@apexpredator_jku my choice would have been the pr60 front and rear. Especially after seeing how many Ultimate adventures they've held up to. Some rigs with portals, some with 54's. I think that would have made a perfect combination for them. Just my opinion though.
@@cespool If I was looking to get the best bang for the buck without breaking the bank, that's the route I would've went too. Not a big fan of semi-float but I could have piece of mind with 40 spline shafts but I don't have a "business relationship" with Dynatrac so hypothetically speaking, if they could get an Elite XD60/80 package for the same price a regular Joe Schmo would pay for a PR60/60 package I'd go "overboard" too.
Hey Brad, do you have a video on your suspension? I can't find anything. thanks!
Hey Brad when yeah doing the rear axle upgrade? Seems front and rear at 100,000 miles should both be in need of upgrading.I love my pro rock 44 on my JL and I am planing on upgrading the back to in a few months to a 60.
When shopping for the new housing did you consider the other options Teraflex or Currie? What helped you pull the trigger on Dynatrac?
Hey Brad, thanks for the great video. Your work is awesome. I need to go thru my LC axles right now. I drained the front and it looked like silver metallic paint. Something seems to be up with that. 🤑
Do u only replace the front axle? What about the rear? Awesome info btw
Thanks Brad. I read the comments on the 'rear' axle and saw that you may upgrade later. I'm curious what you may select? Doesn't look like Dynatrac has a D44 rear axle assembly, would you go to a D60 rear?
Just curious what brand and weight of gear oil did Dynatrac use.
Great Channel!
They recommend Torco 75 X 140 NON synthetic . I had this axle in my Jeep, excellent quality.
I should add that to my Christmas list too :)
Asking...because I'm getting ridiculously different answers--and I really don't know : ) ...if a person was to buy -ready to go- front and rear axles, say pro-rock--etc. 44 or 60s (that come with the upgraded axle shafts, gearing choice, etc.) and I see on the website 4k for each axle for example on the 44's...what should a person expect to pay at a shop to have both axles done + labor...???
You guys talked about excessive wheel offset. What do you consider excessive?