Brandon28XJ

I have a XJ and i am trying to make the choice between a 8.8 and a dana 44. The dana 44 is 50 dollars more then the 8.8 all together both have 3.55 gears. I would be keeping the gears for plenty of time so re-gearing isn't something i need to consider. But what axel would be better for my jeep that is going to be my dd/Trail vehicle.

And also i would like to know some of the pro's and con's of each one to help me make the choice if possible.

XJwonders

What size tire? Cause the 8.8 housing is really big and even with 31/32" tires, u prob would be still drag the diff over rocks.

xjmarc

Is the 8.8 a disc brake axle? If so that's a pro.
8.8 if from an exploder is 31 spline and plenty strong. The drawbacks are the c-clips and weak factory carrier. Weld the tubes to the housing since they like to spin. It's also about an inch narrower than stock but 1/2" per side isn't noticeable. You'll also need spring perches, shock mounts and a flange for the u-joint.
The D44 is 30 spline and has flanged axles, no c-clips. If you found one that isn't a small fortune buy it even if you don't use it because they go for 250+ for the XJ versions. It's also a direct bolt in.
Both have plenty of aftermarket support and strength is roughly the same. 8.8 shafts are slightly stronger but the c-clips make them closer to even again, unless you break a shaft then you'll want the D44.

Brandon28XJ

ok thanks!

Brandon28XJ

im getting 31 or 32in tires

andrewmp6

Which rear end do you have now?If its a dana 35 swap it if its a 8.25 i would keep it unless you want bigger then a 35.

xjmarc

Even the D35 should be fine on 31-32" tires. Could you break it sure but it's doubtful.

Atmos

agreed


I went straight to the 8.8 when I went to 33's. I still dragged diff everywhere even when I went to 35's. It's a big diff. but 32's don't even warrant an axle swap. I'd go straight to 33's. you'll end up there anyway...

freegdr

Dana 44 harder to find hard parts for if needed as 8.8 and 8.25 are everywhere.

unidentifiedbomb

?_? I would think you could buy spare shafts online. Everything else is easy.

SeriousOffroad

The Dana44 has more aftermarket support than you can imagine so finding parts for it is easy.

Add a set of alloy shafts and keep the short side as a trail spare.

Fred/N0AZZ

It sounds like all you would ever need might be a Chy 8.25 with 29 spline axles and its a direct bolt-in not true with the others. I run it in mine with 33's on a trail rig not a DD locked and 4.56's no problems.

SeriousOffroad

Dana 44 out of an 87 through 89 XJ is a direct bolt in

unidentifiedbomb

Just hard to find and those who sell them want an arm/leg for them.

SeriousOffroad

Patience and $125 at my local u-pull.