Alright guys, so I am a total noob when it comes to diff assembly and whatnot... as much as I read, I think I begin to have it, but then I dont.

So instead of buying all new junk and attempting the assembly myself...

I thought about buying a 95 YJ dana 30 with 4.11s from a guy off CL for $300.

The question is... can I just swap guts with my diff and the YJ? Or are there tolerances that need to be taken into account when installing the carrier and whatnot back into the housing?

In a nutshell... Two complete axles, swap guts... anything I am missing?

Now Im just assuming though.... the YJ 30 is HP?

Do you guys think a shop would install used gears?

Just keep looking for a xj D30.

I don't know about the yj because those used leafs.

yeah... i guess having an xj 30 with 4.10s shipped for $450-500 is still cheaper than a new carrier, gears, install kit and having a shop install it.

I looked for a long time.. Was able to score an 8.25 with 4.10s at the yard for 100.. Only used it for the gears. The d30 gears and carrier I got from the E-auction with no reserve.

Most shops in my area wont install used gears.

The YJ - XJ swap won't work, you need reverse cut gears. Installation is pretty much straight forward, correct clearance adjustment is the most difficult part.
Here is a DANA writeup.
http://www2.dana.com/pdf/5717.pdf

SImple answer NO you cant just swap parts over.

Used gears are fine if setup right.

Yeah, Im just gonna look for a 2.5L XJ Dana 30 with the 4.10 in it and swap the entire axle.

i found mine under a diesel cherokee...

Nice... what did it run you if you don't mind me asking?

Just FYI the YJ is a HP with reverse cut gears the TJ and ZJ are not.

for 300 it is not worth it.there is no problem with used gears if they are not to tore up.i would look for a diconect rear because the gears didnt turn so they probly dont have to many miles on them.but to do it right you check the back lash before you pull it apart and set it up to that number

Yeah I thought it was... if you were on a budget would you use used gears or just wait until you had the bread for new gears, carrier etc...?

I was thinking about swapping in the ford 8.8 rear with the 4.10s and then just pulling the front driveline on the D30 until I can afford new gears and maybe an ox.

But at the same token... I don't want the possibility of going through a Montana winter without 4x4.