I know someone will tell me to use google or the search button; trust me, I have. And just when I think Im about to get an answer, 10 different people mix it up. So, I'm gonna try myself to just get some straight answers to my questions.

In a nutshell, my Dana Turdy5 needs to go and I want to swap in a Chrysler 8.25. The D35 is a subpar axle in my opinion, especially with my plans to get a small lift and slightly larger tires and the fact I plan to install a 5.3L Vortec engine down the road (and before anyone says GO FOR THE D44, I have contacted certain people and found out that the 8.25 is plenty strong to handle a 5.3L with stock gearing and slightly larger tires. Worse comes to worse, I'll upgrade the axle shafts down the road if they need it.) So here are my questions.

1) I know I will need new U-bolts and that the D35 backing plate will work. Someone mentioned 3 inch u-bolts. Is this what I need?

2) Will my stock rear driveshaft work and will I need different u-joints? I have heard the D35, C8.25, and D44 all use the same joints, but like I said I am not sure and it seems neither is google. If I can, I'd like to avoid buying or servicing a driveshaft because I know I will probably have to get a new one when I do the engine swap anyways. I'd prefer not to buy the same thing twice, but if ya'll say it is a def need, then I will.

3) I am also aware that my gears need to match since my XJ is a 4x4. IIRC, XJ's with the AW4, NP231, and D30 front axle like mine had 3.55 gears. Is there a label or any stamp on the housing to confirm the gears? I plan on changing the fluid in the new axle as well as my current D30, so if there is a place inside the axle I can check, then I will.

4) Appariently the D30 is also capable of handling the 5.3L when engaged in 4 wheel drive. However, I am slightly worried about the D30 holding up. Do ya'll think a good set of axles would beef things up enough?

I appreciate all the help everyone!!

 

Also, I found this C8.25 at a local JY. Would it fit my XJ? I think the price is pretty good, and plus the mileage isn't bad either. And I know the guy who owns the place and he takes car of his axles. They don't just sit out and rust.


1999
Rear Axle
Jeep Cherokee BROWN,8-98,4.0,AOD 3.55 104,712miles, AE13299 $150


Btw, I forgot to mention that my '91 XJ does NOT have the crappy ABS. Thank God.

 

Btw, to those who have retained their D30 and upgraded the axels, what did you use?

 

Anyone?