Dana 35 -> C-clip trac-lok carrier in a non c-clip housing

[Yellowoctupus]

My '87 NON c-clip rear end is getting noisy (haven't popped the cover off to investigate, but wouldn't be surprised if it's related to the leaking pinion seal....).  On a related note, I just got a c-clip trac-lok 3.73 carrier/pinion from a mid-90's ZJ.  I searched around a bit, and while I THINK the answer is that I can use the entire ZJ carrier assembly in my MJ, has anyone actually confirmed this will work?

 

Before anyone jumps on the "SWAP OUT THE D35" bandwagon, that's easier said than done right now (I have done a handful of Ford 8.8 swaps in the past, but with no 220v welder, limited parts supply etc....  I'd like to consider my options.  Additionally, this is for a 2WD street truck with 235/70/15 (28") tires, FYI. 

 

There's someone selling a complete, new Dana/Spicer Trac Lok on eBay and he seems to have the most definitive answer so far:

 

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https://www.ebay.com/itm/275216159234

 

OEM DANA SPICER Dana 35 3.54 3.73 4.11 4.56 4.88 5.13 And Up TRAC LOK Carrier
27 Spline C clip style axle 1994 to 2000

  This carrier and internal kit are made for Dana 35 Trac Lok rear axles from 1994 to 2000 but can be used in Dana 35 rear axle starting in 1985 as long as it is used as a unit.  The case and the internals are different in Dana 35 axle from 1985 to 1993.  The side gear Journals are bigger from 1985 to 1993 so the parts will not interchange but as a complete carrier it will work.  After 2000 up to 2006 this carrier will also work but you will have to drill out the holes from 3/8 to 7/16 to make it work.

This kit fit Dana 35 rear axle that is found in most YJ TJ and XJ Jeep starting in 1985 to 2000 with 1.55 side gear journals and 3/8 ring gear bolts. Note: After 2001 Dana went to a 7/16 ring gear bolt. You can used the carrier in this listing by drilling the ring gear bolt holes out to 7/16.

 

New OEM Dana Spicer 44590 OR 708142

 

 

 

[ghetdjc320]

You can grab a new grip pro for the same price with free shipping to Guam. Amazon part number GT443527

It’s the powertrax version of the truetrac. Summit also carries it and has great rates for fedex to island (summit will price match Amazon most of the time). Rock auto has these sometimes as well. It will have the c clip windows but otherwise it’s the same setup. I’d suggest grabbing some new set 10 bearings while you’re at it. 

[Yellowoctupus]

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You can grab a new grip pro for the same price with free shipping to Guam. Amazon part number GT443527

 

I already have the Trac-Lok, with the 3.73 gears. I only posted that guy's eBay link as he claimed it would fit c-clip and non c-clip D35's.  Of course, the used one I have needs the clutch pack / spider/side gear rebuild kit.  IIRC, that's about $250 on Rockauto. 

 

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It will have the c clip windows but otherwise it’s the same setup.

 

So the same should be true for the Trac-Lok?  It's backwards compatible?  Just want to be 100% sure before I pull the trigger on getting bearings, etc. 

 

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I’d suggest grabbing some new set 10 bearings while you’re at it. 

 

I'll probably put new bearings and seals everywhere (axles, pinion, carrier) , unless they look pristine.  It'd be nice to do this only once.  The ZJ pinion bearings do look perfect.  I know they're cheap to replace, and I may end up doing it for peace of mind, but it's tempting to try to just swap in the whole pinion/bearing assembly and see how close the pattern is before re-shimming, etc.