So, as usual for the cherokees, my jeep rear end is the crappy dana 35. Not only do I want to get rid of c-clips, but I want a stronger axle to run the 33x12.5 tires I have. I'd like to do a dana 44, but don't have the funds to buy it new. What junkyard vehicles have a dana 44, and would be a relatively easy swap? Any advice would be great, thanks!

 

only easy Dana 44 swap would be one from another cherokee... (87-90 with towing package or certain trim levels).

97-01 Chrysler 8.25 axle is plenty strong and a stout axle for 33's. I know it's a c-clip axle but it's really straightforward swap and it's also able to convert to rear disc set up too. It's also easily found in pretty much all junkyards.

 

if you ever see an early cherokee chief, i would be under looking at the rear axle. i find those are the ones that usually have them.

i've bought 4 or 5 cherokees with d44, two were chiefs and 2 were fleet vehicles. all were 1987.

some early waggys had the 44 also that will bolt right in.
also some comanche's but those were spring under.

don't forget to grab the top u-bolt plate and rear drive shaft

 

For the 33" tire all you need is a Chy 8.25 29 spline cheap and easy to find plus a direct bolt-in, the 44's are harder to find now and some want to much money for them when you do.


I run 33's and 35's both on my 8.25 and D30 but that is max.

 

An 8.8 out of an explorer is easy to come by an a simple swap. You can find then cheaper than a Dana 44.

 

The 8.8 takes welding tho,The best bang for the buck is the chrysler 8.25 because it bolts in and is easy to find.

 

And super easy to swap disc brakes on to, where a Dana 44 is not.