Just remember, whatever you do with the rear axle, you must do to the front, unless you never want to run in 4WD! If the ratios are different, you'll most likely destroy the transfer case.

 

I second that about needing to regear the front to match whatever you do in the rear. Also my .02 is to stay away from the D44a. It is not the same as the Dana 44's that are found under other 4x4s. There is very little aftermarket support for the axle. There are several kits on the market now that allow you to beef up your 35 with new axle shafts and a c-clip eliminator. There are also more traction aid options (lockers) for the 35 than the D44a. Once again, just my .02.

 

Wow didn't realize the gc d44 sucks too. I will definitely match the front diff. Thanks for the advice. My bad on calling that dude a DA lol. I was irritated about his reply.

 

Yeah your kinda limited on bolt and go rears for the gc. If you have the money to do it then I would suggest a 8.8 swap but your gonna have to fab stuff. That way you get a good rear that can handle up to 35's, disc brakes and there is plenty of aftermarket stuff for it. That's my .02.

 

I don't think that any fab will be needed, but a weld-on bracket kit will definitely be needed.

Here ya go:
http://www.seriousoffroadproducts.co...y-Ford-8.8-Kit

 

I just did a little research on JeepTech.com. You can do to 4.56 in both the D35 and the D30.

 

I swapped in a Dana 44a out of a 5.9 ZJ into my 4.0 and it's a good axle. I have several trips in the woods with it and I beat the hell out of it. I run 33s and the axle holds up fine. I hate when this axle gets bashed cause it really is not a bad axle in my opinion. You can buy a new diff cover from blue torch and a truss for the Dana 44a From MVC and it'll be one hell of a strong axle.

 

I also have the d44a and it's good haven't broke anything in it but for aftermarket support it sucks. No lockers not much of anything really besides trusses and diff covers.

 

The D44a is not horrible axle, but as stated it has no aftermarket support as for lockers and such. The D35 will support up to 35s if treated right. Now if you just want to go crazy wheeling I would step up to a rock jock 44 or even a 60. I did recently see a company offering a kit to bolt rubicon 44s under a ZJ/WJ; not sure on the cost though. I think I would just regear your current axle and wheel it until something breaks. Then upgrade.

 

Just tossing this in here people bash the 35 but the r and p are larger than the Dana 30 and people fell safe building them all day long so.... Take it for what its worth