So i want to upgrade a Dana turdy five I know 44 are gold but what about 8.8 how hard is the swap do I have to weld or is it bolt on? I would just like some basic points as to doing the swap and a finger in the right direction.

 

You have to cut off the mounts and weld on new mounts to fit your jeep

 

You can find a 44 out of a late 80's xj with the tow package, it is completely bolt on. The 8.8 takes welding skill because you have to remove the old like said and then weld everything back on (new perches and stuff)
A lot of times with things like this its said if you have to ask than your not ready to do it yet and that's usually true ( not trying to be mean)

 

8.25 out of a 97 and newer XJ is the easiest to find and a bolt in with real close to 44 strength. 8.8 requires welding as well as drive shaft mods. A lot more work for not a whole lot more of a gain than the 8.25.

 

Thanks

 

I'm doing the D35 to 8.25 swap in a few weekends. It's a very easy upgrade

 

8.25 is direct bolt on. Cheap to do. And you can upgrade brakes and axles when needed. 8.25 is about $200. Treadles brakes (to make it easy) is about $500. Alloy inners are like $300. Throw in a locker of your choice. I've ran both Detroit and the Power Trax. Either one does really well. Assuming your not tackling huge boulders.