Atlas 2 or D300 doubler?

[Smokeyyank]

So recently picked up a new MJ project and looking at getting better gearing for the trail. 

 

Basics are a 4.0 AX15 with D44's a 4.30s, has 33s now but will move up to 35's. Right now I don't want to swap axles or regear so looking at a Atlas or underdrive set up with a D300. 

 

Cost wise between the two setups is roughly ~1k IF I source most of needed parts for the underdrive and install them, if I buy the underdrive drop in ready probably ~$500. Atlas is coming in around $2700 and a D300 doubler about $1400-1700 depending on some things. (Rebuilding the cases, putting in a twin stick cover kit to flip the D300, sourcing a 231 6 planetary, etc). Only plus with the D300 set up is it would be more comparable to the Atlas 4 being able to have 2 low and a slightly higher low range 5:33:1 instead of the 5.0:1. Move up to the Atlas 4 and then it becomes a way different comparison but also an additional $800 but a low range of 11.70:1.

 

Guess as I start looking at the cost breakdown the Atlas seems to make more sense all things considered, but it's the additional amount the I'm trying to see if it's worth it.

 

Other option is  just running with the 242 in there and putting the rest towards some of the other things. 

 

Thoughts?

[Pete M]

any idea what the going rate is for a used Rubicon t-case?

 

personally I really like the AWD option that a 242 gives.  

[Smokeyyank]

Think a used rubi about 1500, so not really any difference. I have a 242 on my WJ and do like it in the snow. 

[Pete M]

My KJ has been in AWD mode for 95% of its life.    

[Smokeyyank]

I may just keep saving my pennies until I can get a four speed atlas. I have the d300 and can run that since it would about the same cost to get a sye for the 242. 

[Pete M]

all of the options are good choices.  may come down to listening to your gut.  

 

[derf]

For a trail rig, I'd go Atlas.  Once you add up all of the upgrades to the 300 (32 spline output shafts, 4:1 gears, etc.) you're better off going with the Atlas.

 

As far as the 4 speed, I had one in my JK with the 11.70 behind the 6 speed manual.  It was great for the Pentastar V6 with no low end torque.  I took it all over the CO mountains and Moab.  The 4.0 has better low end torque and the 11.70 may be overkill.  Even with no low end I spent 99% of the time in 4.3 low.

 

A Rubicon transfer case would be a good option as well and it bolts right up.

 

 

[Smokeyyank]

Cool good to know. 

 

I'd consider a rubi case if it was cheaper. Looking now and most are around $1500+. 

 

Other thought that just popped in was doing a hack n tap for the 242. Pretty sure I can just use this https://www.ironrockoffroad.com/product/hack-n-tap-slip-yoke-eliminator-kit.html and solve the dilemma. Just don't want to spend on a ton on a short term solution. 

[derf]

I wouldn't spend any money on a 242 for a trail rig.  Are you dealing with vibrations right now?

[Smokeyyank]

1 hour ago, derf said:

I wouldn't spend any money on a 242 for a trail rig.  Are you dealing with vibrations right now?

 

Currently it's non running, still need to finish up what Neal was working on. I don't think they'll be any vibes, it's only at 3.5" but never know. 

[thecodemonk]

As a note...if you heear really really low, make sure your brakes are in good shape. Multiplying torque can make it hard for the brakes to overcome the power and stop your truck :)

Sent from my Pixel 4 using Tapatalk

[Smokeyyank]

9 hours ago, thecodemonk said:

As a note...if you heear really really low, make sure your brakes are in good shape. Multiplying torque can make it hard for the brakes to overcome the power and stop your truck :)

Sent from my Pixel 4 using Tapatalk
 

Never even thought about that part but thanks for mentioning it. It already has the booster upgrade and new brakes, but I'm not really sure how much of a caliper upgrade the Waggy 44 is over a 30.