husky_wolf

Hey y'all. I might have the opportunity to buy a rear dana 44 out of a jeep xj with 4:10 gears. The guy hasn't sent me pictures yet but I was wondering if theres any indicators to look for to confirm that it is in fact a jeep xj dana 44. Any help would be appreciated.

husky_wolf

Anyone?

Dumajones

look at the cover and compare to this pic..



I have also been told The D44 has a metal plug and not plastic ..

and here
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f67/ho...a-44-a-102548/

XJwonders

x2

husky_wolf

Thanks guys. It is a d44, I'm gonna measure my 8.25 to make sure it's in fact an xj axle

thebyus

Seems like a LOT of work for minimal gain. The D44 is only marginally stronger than the 8.25, even if you are running the 27 spline on a '96.

husky_wolf

If it's an xj axle than its not much work at all to put it under. My plan is to swap to disc brakes, upgrade the internals with quality parts and throw a locker in there. But I want to still enjoy the jeep while the d44 Is being worked.

andrewmp6

Just remember your front and rear axle has to have the same gear ratio in them.

husky_wolf

Yup I'm well aware. I'm constantly looking for a d44 front as well. If I don't find one by the time the d44 is done then I'll re gear the front.

caged

an xj44 will have 5 on 4.5 bolt pattern, shock mounts staggered, one on the front of tube and one on the rear of tube. these are the easiest things to notice just by looking.

also xj is spring over while mj is spring under... just in case.

husky_wolf

Here's the pics that the seller sent me.. I'll let you guys be the judge.

andrewmp6

If your looking for a bolt in front dana 44 only thing factory is a tj rubicon but its not a true 44,Its more like a dana 30 they stuck a dana diff in it.A 80 and newer jeep wagoneer fsj can work but takes welding and its a 6 lug axle.If your going that way you can skip the xjs rear 44 and use one from a isuzu rodeo its the same 6 lug but will take welding also.

caged

yep, that appears to be an xj44 to me.
as long as it's 5 on 4.5 then that would make it a sure thing as no other d44 other than the mj came with 5 on 4.5 bolt pattern.

it looks to be in really good shape too. but wonder what that other plug is as i don't recall any of mine having it.

jbsjunk

That plug in the front cover looks like one a salvage yard uses when they drain the front diff.

caged

this is a rear diff... and xj didn't have 44 front. (i know someone will pop in and say they did in south america, but can it be proven, i think not)

and that plug looks factory punched...