Which axle to choose?

93redzj

93redzj

Well-Known Member
Joined
Aug 29, 2005
Location
Albemarle
Right now ive got a 3" lift and 31's on my Grand Cherokee ZJ, ive got the 30/35 combo in it as well. My plans in the future include a long arm lift and 35's. So my question is this, I believe the D44a was an option in some ZJ's if thats the case it would be a direct bolt in right? Would the 44a hold up to 35's? Or should I swap in an 8.8? I dont really see myself going any higher than a 35" tire. Thanks for the help. :driver:
 
I think only a few models of Jeeps (other than wagoneers) had 44 fronts. Rubicon and such don't have true D44s, whereas the outers are D30s if I'm not mistaken.
 
Of couse it depends on your driving style but my experience is that the 8.8 is quite a bit stronger. I've seen lots of breaks on D44s but none on 8.8s. I'm sure 8.8s have had their problems, I just haven't seen it myself. I ran an 8.8 with 4.88 gears for 3 years with 35s and never had a problem with it except for a mini spool I exploded at Tellico one Dixie Run. Know at least 6 personal friends with the 8.8 swap and all have been satisfied with their choice. Just my .02
 
Thanks for the replies guys, I guess I caused just a little bit of confusion though, I should have stated im looking to replace my rear axle, (the D35) with either the 8.8 or D44a. I know a lot of guys do the 8.8 swap and Ive spoke with Andy at the rockshop via PM about this swap. But if the D44a will hold up to 35's and will be a direct bolt up, then I figured I could go with that and keep cost down just a little bit.
 
8.8

the only weak link i know of is the stock oper carrier....has been known to split with a lockright installed. Throw a detroit in it and never look back.

Seth
 
OnlyOneDR said:
It does for sure. ZuperJunk. Go for the 8.8, or better yet a 9", no C-clips.
Click to expand...

Even better idea, but I think he's wanting to stay the same width as the front axle. Just got my 9" under the S10 and took the C-clips out of the stock axle. They are more trouble than they are worth.
 
From what I've seen the 8.8 tends to be stronger, but the 44 seems to have more aftermarket support. I know people with 8.8's some who love them and some who wouldn't piss on them to put a fire out.
 
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