wheelin'

I know the 29spline in the 8.25 has a larger diameter shaft compared to the 27spline 8.25 BUT does that really make that big of a difference? I currently am running 3.07s and want to move up to 33s but theres no way im going to do so with crappy 3.07s. I decided I want 4.10s, but the only 4.10s i found are 27spline 8.25. where there 29spline 8.25 with 4.10s? also how bad are 27spline 8.25, cause it looks like my only option instead of re-gearing my current rear or doing an 8.8 swap. thanks guys

Lowrange2

Just go straight to an 8.8.

Never, ever, downsize. Bigger is better, no matter who says you're wrong.

MWildmann

I get the whole "don't ever downsize" thing, however you've got take other factors into account too. You likely won't break a 27 spline 8.25 on 33s. If you do, swapping in the 29-spline carrier, spiders and shafts is not a big deal. Or, pick up some alloy shafts. Gotta factor in price too. If you're picking up the 4.10 geared axle for less than $200, it's a no brainer. Cheapest gear change you'll ever find. I swapped my 3.55 geared 29 spline 8.25 axle for a 4.10 geared 27 spline. Now i'm goin up to 33s too and i'm not too worried about breaking it.

Atmos

probably not. but we're just saying it's a waste of efford. 4.10's... not a significant upgrade. just do it once and do it right. spend the money now. you're going to spend it all in the long run why not just cut to the finish line

SeriousOffroad

27 spline shafts are smaller.

squirrelcrusher

The OP is going from 3.07 so changing to 4.10 is a bigger change.

tvarney26

as low range said go to the jy and get a ford explorer rear 8.8 very cost friendly and that way ur not upset when you have to keep polishing a terd rear

Lowrange2

If you're paying 200 bucks for a 27 spline 8.25 you're shopping in the wrong place.

RWKHausSupply

A D44 swap is a MUCH better swap.
F8.8 has alot fewer locker options and typically cost more for the locker.
F8.8 cost more for the gears.
F8.8 takes fab work, removing PITA perches, and mounts, and welding on new perches, shock mounts and reworking brake lines.
F8.8 is narrower.
F8.8 takes a special non jeep related driveshaft flange adapter.
F8.8 takes new brake cables.

All the above is to do it Right, not bootie fab.

D44 unbolts and bolts in, no welding, Same width, same brake cables and hyd. brake lines, D44 has larger drums then stock. D44 has a air locker option that very strong for only 650-675$. F8.8 has a arb at about 300$ more or a weak unreliable E-locker at a 150-200$ more.

Yes a 8.8 is a ok swap, but why? When it will cost you 150-300$ and a XJ D44 will cost you 150-450$.

Just sayin...

But back to your question.
Your 27spline will be fine with 33" tires and 4.10 gearing, unless you plan on trying to abuse stuff?

Then if so just get 29spline shafts, slide right in (I have em in alloy for only 100ea) and then a new posi unit (nice to still drive on the street yet very nice traction adder in soft lose stuff) for only 300$. Meaning for 500$ you can get a 29spline setup and not have to worry about finding any other axle housing, and maybe redo brakes on it, and any of the F8.8 crap mentioned above...

Lowrange2

Now, let's take a walk thru a junk yard. I get a dollar for every F8.8 we find and you get a dollar for every XJ44 we find.

My obvious point being that XJ44's aren't found as easily as an 8.8. Sure, you may have them stock piled in some dark closet in the back of your shop but your average Joe is either going to pay WAY too much for this almighty XJ44 or they're going to pay an arm and a leg for shipping.

I run a Detroit locker in my 8.8. It's not selectable but I've been pleased with it.
Gears cost 12 dollars more...
If you can't weld on perches then you don't need to be working on Jeeps.
I'm not sure which brake lines you used but mine bolted right up to my XJ line.
I like the Flange adapter. As long as you have a spare one you're good to go.
Who the hell needs E-brake cables?!

Yes, an XJ44 is ideal but 8.8's are just as ideal if you're willing to put 2 hours of work into it...

Bottom line... If the OP is staying on 33's then slap a 27 spline housing on there and roll with it until it explodes.

Atmos

I like doing the added work for the antiwrap perches, raised shocks, and fixed pinion angle. it's just some extra perks that you're forced to do with the 8.8 that are worth it. this topic has been beaten to death so it doesnt really matter. I'm just saying I'd rather put my $200 toward building the current 29 spline 8.25 or swapping in a different axle than buying a 27 8.25 that I would hate. if it had 4.56 or 4.88 gears and a real locker I'd pick it up for $200 sure. but I wouldn't want to get stuck on 4.10

ktmracer419

if you found a 27 spline 8.25 with 4.10's for cheap enough and have a 29 spline 8.25, why not just put the 29 spline stuff from your current axle into the 4.10 geared axle?

sure seems like the most cost effective solution for the OP.

N20jeep

xj 44's typically go for atleast 500 around here and they are extremely rare, the u pull it yards have 8.8's at $100-150.

RWKHausSupply

X2..

I couldn't figure out if he had a 29spline now or?

If so, just get gears at 150$ and maybe even a basic kit at 20$ and find a local at about 150 (thats even a bit high) to professionally install them in the 29sp and your golden.

N20jeep

and the strength of the 8.8 over the rear 44 make it much more worth it. everything is larger


but for the op. 29spline 8.25 is plenty