I have a 98 cherokee lifted 4.5 inches and running 31s. I may go up to 33's as some point, but the jeep is very capable as is. I live in Denver and the Jeep is pretty pitiful going up i-70 into the mountains. I'd like to regear, but its very expensive ($500 for parts + labor).

So, I've got a line on a 1994 4 cylinder Cherokee for $400. My plan is to yank the transfer case, transmission, front DS, and axles. The axles are a D30/C8.25 with STOCK 4.10's. I'll use those and sell the rest of the parts.

Am I crazy for considering this? It seems like a better option than trying to regear a D30 and D35 - especially since the D35 is a turd.

 

Do it

 

X2
do it
The 8.25 is a stronger axle than the 35. I've heard stories of both being locked on 33s & survived.

 

One thing nobody is talking about is the ABS system. 8.25 does not have ABS but the D35 does and your vehicle might have it. If you do have ABS its another situation you need to think about.

 

I would do the swap, and if you have ABS pull the fuse.

 

I've been looking to do the same thing, being in colorado as well if you dont take the ones you've found let me know!

 

Then you get a CEL and that is bad if you have inspections.

 

 

Pull the bulb for the CEL.

 

Only difference between the pre '97 8.25 and a D35 is the tube size. Less chance of deflection with the larger housing 8.25. But still weak 27 spline shafts. I would get it, maybe toss in a locker. If you regear down the road you can get 29 shafts and carrier to swap in as well since they're interchangeable

 

Pull the ABS fuse, and relays, no ABS lights, no CEL

 

Not the only difference, Dana 35 has a 7.62" ring gear and smaller pinion also. Chrysler 8.25 has, you guessed it, a 8.25" ring gear