So i was walking around the salvage yards the other day and around here all the jeeps are siting on the axles so you can't really see them does anybody know what to look for in the vin to tell if an xj has a 44 I know its usually just the older ones. thanks in advance

 

There is nothing in the vin that will tell you.... Even though normally it was only available in the towing package, when AMC existed you could order anything at any time.

 

Nothing in the vin, the only really sold way that I know is to stuck your head under there and look. The only years that had the dana 44s were 1987 to 1989, usually with the towing package. So if its an 87-89 they take a look underneath, that should help you narrow it down a bit.

 

thanks guys i guess i'll start packing knee pads and a weed wacker

 

I have a 87 with the d44 and I still don't know for sure how to tell if I have the towing package without looking at the rear axle...

 

A 29 spline c8.25 is about as strong as a d44 or upgrade to ford 8.8 to get disk brakes and LSD. You can upgrade a 27 spline 8.25 by getting 29 spline axle shaft and a locker then you will be able to run 35's pretty easily

IMO XJ d44 are hard to find and expensive for what they are, and they are nothing special

 

Non-C Clip
Huge amount of after market support.
Lower prices for aftermarket upgrades.

Yep, nothing special at all.

 

was only used on XJs 1987-1989 with factory tow package.
Look at the pumpkin:

 

I enjoy reading through these threads but sometimes the conversations confuse me more. I have a 92 XJ with tow package and a Dana 44 rear. I bought it new off the showroom floor in 91. Has anyone heard of this combination for 1992? How does this reconcile with 'only 87 to 89 with tow package'. Maybe using up the on-the -shelf inventory?

Edit:
I researched my Dana axle a little further and learned that the Dana model number is cast in the differential body web above the driver's side axle tube. It says 35C. Meaning it's a Dana model 35 'custom' (not C clip). No more guessing at the shape of the diff cover to identify. My mistake for the above post.

 

I researched my Dana axle a little further and learned that the Dana model number is cast in the differential body web above the driver's side axle tube. It says 35C. Meaning it's a Dana model 35 'custom' (not C clip). No more guessing at the shape of the diff cover to identify. My mistake for the previous posting.