Hey guys. My new-to-me XJ has a nasty vibration from the rear. Lifted it up and found that the U-bolts are loose and good and rusty. Can't tighten them down or they will break off. Trying to find the proper size. Anybody know? Stock dana 35 rear end. Thanks.

 

i believe the d35 was 2.75 inch tube diameter. as for length, you will have to measure that for your thread depth.
is it stock leafs or do you have add a leaf and/or block/shims?

best to replace with fine thread u bolts in my opinion.

 

So i went to my local powertrain store. They had some that are off just a bit. 2 7/8". But I am going to give them a shot. They were way cheaper than going to autozone and getting the ones there. With how loose the rusty ones on there are, these will be leaps and bounds better.

 

That may not have been a very good idea buying ones that do not fit properly and you may soon find the reason. AutoZone is not one to overprice there parts by any means.

 

Im going to check one. He told me if it doesn't fit right I can bring them back no problem.

 

i get all my u bolts bent up at a drive line shop. it is a lot more pricey, but you get quality in every way possible. (black 5/8 tool steel with fine thread vs chrome 1/2 inch with course thread).

if you have a drive line shop in your town, you should check them out.

 

Thanks. Ill keep that in mind. Don't have much cash right now, but I wanted to make the thing feel safe while im driving. It feels almost like the whole rear axle will fall out if i hit the right bump. lol

 

If you don't have enough cash to buy good quality u-bolts that are the correct size, I would just park the thing. That's not exactly something you want to mess around with.

 

100% true. Only, its my only transportation.

 

Well, good news. Since I had the new bolts I was no longer afraid to break the old ones by trying to tighten them down with my impact. All bolts tightened so I have the proper bolts in place. Now to take these bolts back and get my money back! Thanks for all the input guys.

 

glad you got it fixed up