Why don't I see any recommendations for a product like this: http://www.superioraxlegear.com/supe...r-p-13769.html If the weak link is the thin axle shafts, wouldn't this solve the problem? They say this makes the overall size bigger than a D44 axle.

 

Because the small diameter axle shafts are not the only weak point of the D35. The axle tubes are small and the tube walls are thin leaving them prone to being bent with larger tires and offroad use. The tubes are also pressed into the center housing and they can twist in the housing causing leaks. In a nutshell, you can plate a turd in 24K gold and it is still a turd. For the money you would spend just trying to make the D35 a "decent" axle, you can can upgrade to a D44 or a Ford 8.8 and have a "strong" axle.

 

Yeah dana 35=poo. There is no need to spend that money on a 35 when you can spend it on a swap and cost a hell of a lot less!

 

Also the fact that the ring gear size is small on the D35 and it doe not hold up to larger tires when locked.

 

Get you a 8.8 with disc brakes and dont look back.....

 

I have been wonderiing about this for a while. I like the d35 just because I have had it so long, but I will probably upgrade. What is the easier upgrade 8.8, 9, or d44? What mods need to be done. Any particular car to get them from?
Thanks Brendan

 

any dana 44 from a XJ will be a direct bolt in.

 

an 8.8 is a pretty straight forward swap. some of these axles has 4.10 gears so make sure you know what gearing the axle has before you put it in. its a little narrower then the stock axle but a 1 inch spacer does the trick.

 

Eventually I should change out my HOWLING d35... When I get the money Im gonna look for a chrysler 8.25 or a D44. I usually see them on craigslist for about 100 bucks.
I recommend you buy one, and upgrade THAT, instead of burning money on the d35. Its known to be a weak axle, especially with bigger tires. Just make sure you get the right gear ratio...

 

don't forget the chrysler 8.25. even a 27 spline 8.25 is better than a dana 35.

I'd go with a dana 44. remember gears need to match.

 

I think the D44 is the way to go. I have looked for some and they are a tuff find. I have a real good jeep specialist junkyard near me so I will give them a try. I will try to get a cherokee one. Wat mods need to be done to a non cherokee d44?
Thanks Brendan