What axle is this...

[tbrand]

... and would it be a worthwhile upgrade to my 2wd '89?

 

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/pts/2049021985.html

[jimmy21669]

It is a Dana 30. If your rear is 3:55 and you are doing a 4wd conversion, it looks in good shape, and is worth the price. You may need to turn the rotors, but other that that, it looks plug and play.

[tbrand]

Real dumb, but how do I know what my rear axle ratio is?

 

I believe mine's a D35, 4.0 BA10/5, 2wd (obviously).

[jimoshel]

There should be a metal tag on it, same as the one in the pic. If it's missing then remove the cover. The ratio is stamped on the outer edge of the ring gear.

[jimmy21669]

4.0 5 speed is more than likely 3:07.

[tbrand]

I wondered what that little bit of metal hanging off one of the bolts was. It was so covered in grime that I couldn't read it before.

 

I assume the "3.08" stamped on it means that this front axle is not the one I'm looking for. Thanks for the info, guys.

[shelbyluvv]

A 3:55 gear ratio is awesome with a 5 speed and 31s. It is really easy and cheap to find a XJ D35 with 3:55s and swap it out as well.

[tbrand]

So, essentially, a lower number (3.08, for example) is oriented more toward cruising and mileage than, say, 4.56?

[Automan2164]

Yep, but there comes a point where its less for cruising and more for sucking. I think the 2.73's in the Grand Wagoneer's cross that line.

 

Rob L.

[Geonovast]

3.55 is a good step up from 3.07, even with stock tires. Also a good price for that axle. Pretty rare for anyone to include all the information you need when listing an axle.

 

I would pick up the 3.55 Dana 30 and find a 3.55 rear (+speedo gear) to go with it, even if you're not upping tire size.

[tbrand]

In order to make this of any use in my truck, I'd need a

 

-4wd transmission

-transfer case

-3.55 rear axle

 

What else?

[Geonovast]

4wd Checklist:

 

4wd Transmission. In your case, a 4wd BA 10/5 or 4wd AX-15, preferably AX-15 but you'll need an AX-15 crossmember if you don't already have one.

Transfercase.

T-case handle, linkages, brackets.

Front axle.

Rear axle to match front.

Front Driveshaft.

Shorter rear Driveshaft.

You may need a longer speedo cable.

You don't need to worry about the vacuum harness, just lock the CAD and forget it.

 

That's about it unless you're converting to an external slave at the same time.

[xjrev10]

local salvage yard up here wanted 600 bucks for a Dana 30 last time I checked :fs1: