what would be better to get? the ford 8.8 or the dana 44?

 

Personlly they are both great axles. To solve your delema, you should go with a currier 9" and gear it up and put lockers in it. Thats my opinion.

 

They are pretty close to the same in strength, so you can throw that out. What is the D44 coming out of? If it is an XJ D44, that will take less time to get in, being a direct bolt in. The advantages of the 8.8 are usually lower gear ratio at around 4.10, disc brakes (on some years), they may have some traction control device, and they are pretty plentiful (aka cheap). So I guess it depends on how much those things matter, and how quick you want the job to be. Either one will be a good step up from a stock rear end.

PS - I have heard the 8.8 has an issue with spinning tubes, and it is wise to put a truss or some kind of reinforcement on it. The D44 does not have that reputation. Another possible factor.

 

Just weld the tubes to the center section before you stuff it under your rig. For the 8.8 at least.

 

XJ44 is easier if you can find one cause it bolts right in.........Good luck finding one.
I went with a 8.8 in both of mine. Little bit of work but it was worth it for disc brakes.

 

I've got a Dana 44 from an XJ. It's a spare. It was for my 93 to replace the 35 but I've since bought a 96 with the 8.25 and I picked up 29 spline carrier and shafts so the Dana 44 is for sale. If you're interested, let me know. It's in need of a new ring and pinion and some new brakes, however, it's complete from drum to drum and is a direct bolt in. Thanks.

 

8.8 requires wheel spacers to keep the wms measures the same, and disc brakes require more pressure than drums so you have to change the prop valve

 

I'd rather have an XJ 44.

Too much too and not enough benefit for the 8.8 to worth.

Get the 44, weld the tubes, raise the shock mounts, clean up the brakes, slap some gears and a locker in, and you're good to go.