Drink

Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching and
scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny shop
recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's from a
79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14 bolt rear
and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the silver
bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this and don't
like this about it" hits.
Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over or
under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better braking,
though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off the bat.
P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it drive
like a dump truck:)
Regards,
Jim

Carl

Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
3. Do you want lockers?
4. What size tires do you want to run?
5. What engine do you have?
6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?

I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires w/o
lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I probably
wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.

Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If you
do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.

Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the axles
you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get the best
deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be narrowed to
fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably be illegal
someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.

I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best bang
for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford Explorer and
keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same width as your
front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts, than your AMC 20 and
has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your CJ has the wide-track or
narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will likely chime in.

HTH.

Carl


"Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching and
> scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny shop
> recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's from a
> 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14 bolt rear
> and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the silver
> bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this and don't
> like this about it" hits.
> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over or
> under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off the
> bat.
> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
> drive like a dump truck:)
> Regards,
> Jim
>

Carl

Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
3. Do you want lockers?
4. What size tires do you want to run?
5. What engine do you have?
6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?

I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires w/o
lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I probably
wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.

Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If you
do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.

Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the axles
you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get the best
deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be narrowed to
fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably be illegal
someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.

I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best bang
for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford Explorer and
keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same width as your
front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts, than your AMC 20 and
has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your CJ has the wide-track or
narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will likely chime in.

HTH.

Carl


"Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching and
> scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny shop
> recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's from a
> 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14 bolt rear
> and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the silver
> bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this and don't
> like this about it" hits.
> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over or
> under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off the
> bat.
> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
> drive like a dump truck:)
> Regards,
> Jim
>

Carl

Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
3. Do you want lockers?
4. What size tires do you want to run?
5. What engine do you have?
6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?

I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires w/o
lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I probably
wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.

Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If you
do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.

Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the axles
you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get the best
deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be narrowed to
fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably be illegal
someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.

I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best bang
for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford Explorer and
keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same width as your
front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts, than your AMC 20 and
has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your CJ has the wide-track or
narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will likely chime in.

HTH.

Carl


"Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching and
> scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny shop
> recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's from a
> 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14 bolt rear
> and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the silver
> bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this and don't
> like this about it" hits.
> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over or
> under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off the
> bat.
> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
> drive like a dump truck:)
> Regards,
> Jim
>

Drink

1 Pockets not very deep at the moment but time heals all wounds. Arms are
kinda lanky but not sure what that has to do with axles:)
2 Lookin' for as capable as I can get but don't do anything radical; mostly
inch-worm, creepy-crawly kinda stuff and camping.
3 Lockers are better but could live with open diffs til can upgrade later.
4 Got 33's for the past many years. Could go bigger to keep dimensions
right. Not interested in size, though, just ability.
5 Just swapped in a Chevrolet 350 w/TPI, headers, etc. It's backed up with
a NV4500 & Dana 300. Plenty of torque and power. Gonna upgrade it again
and the numbers will go up (only 'cause I haven't rebuilt yet).
6 Outstanding question. I've owned it for somewhere around 13 years now and
would never part with it. It's a sentimental hobby car since my son used to
love beating it with a hammer as a toddler (lost him shortly thereafter:(
All I can tell people is, "It's a Jeep thing. You wouldn't understand."
Anyway, it's not meant to be a bogger, rock-crawler or pit-beater. It's a
quest for the best all around 4WD I can build based on design; 44" tires and
10' tall isn't cool unless it's optimum (33" tires were it due to handling
and brakes).
Basically looking for the best starting alternative to look for and have
all the time in the world to upgrade/modify from there. I have two little
girls to beat on it with a wrench now:)
Best Regards,
Jim

"Carl" <carlsaiyed@REMOVE.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:7_SdnRVY1bcHsC7enZ2dnUVZ_tednZ2d@comcast.com. ..
> Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
> 1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
> 2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
> 3. Do you want lockers?
> 4. What size tires do you want to run?
> 5. What engine do you have?
> 6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?
>
> I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
> without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires
> w/o lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I probably
> wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.
>
> Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
> spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If you
> do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.
>
> Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the axles
> you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get the best
> deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be narrowed
> to fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably be illegal
> someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.
>
> I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best
> bang for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford Explorer
> and keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same width as
> your front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts, than your AMC
> 20 and has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your CJ has the
> wide-track or narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will likely chime
> in.
>
> HTH.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
> news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
>> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
>> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
>> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching
>> and scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny shop
>> recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's from
>> a 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14 bolt
>> rear and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
>> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
>> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the silver
>> bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this and
>> don't like this about it" hits.
>> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
>> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over or
>> under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
>> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off the
>> bat.
>> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
>> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
>> drive like a dump truck:)
>> Regards,
>> Jim
>>
>
>

Drink

1 Pockets not very deep at the moment but time heals all wounds. Arms are
kinda lanky but not sure what that has to do with axles:)
2 Lookin' for as capable as I can get but don't do anything radical; mostly
inch-worm, creepy-crawly kinda stuff and camping.
3 Lockers are better but could live with open diffs til can upgrade later.
4 Got 33's for the past many years. Could go bigger to keep dimensions
right. Not interested in size, though, just ability.
5 Just swapped in a Chevrolet 350 w/TPI, headers, etc. It's backed up with
a NV4500 & Dana 300. Plenty of torque and power. Gonna upgrade it again
and the numbers will go up (only 'cause I haven't rebuilt yet).
6 Outstanding question. I've owned it for somewhere around 13 years now and
would never part with it. It's a sentimental hobby car since my son used to
love beating it with a hammer as a toddler (lost him shortly thereafter:(
All I can tell people is, "It's a Jeep thing. You wouldn't understand."
Anyway, it's not meant to be a bogger, rock-crawler or pit-beater. It's a
quest for the best all around 4WD I can build based on design; 44" tires and
10' tall isn't cool unless it's optimum (33" tires were it due to handling
and brakes).
Basically looking for the best starting alternative to look for and have
all the time in the world to upgrade/modify from there. I have two little
girls to beat on it with a wrench now:)
Best Regards,
Jim

"Carl" <carlsaiyed@REMOVE.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:7_SdnRVY1bcHsC7enZ2dnUVZ_tednZ2d@comcast.com. ..
> Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
> 1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
> 2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
> 3. Do you want lockers?
> 4. What size tires do you want to run?
> 5. What engine do you have?
> 6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?
>
> I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
> without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires
> w/o lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I probably
> wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.
>
> Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
> spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If you
> do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.
>
> Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the axles
> you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get the best
> deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be narrowed
> to fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably be illegal
> someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.
>
> I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best
> bang for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford Explorer
> and keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same width as
> your front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts, than your AMC
> 20 and has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your CJ has the
> wide-track or narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will likely chime
> in.
>
> HTH.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
> news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
>> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
>> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
>> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching
>> and scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny shop
>> recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's from
>> a 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14 bolt
>> rear and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
>> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
>> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the silver
>> bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this and
>> don't like this about it" hits.
>> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
>> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over or
>> under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
>> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off the
>> bat.
>> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
>> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
>> drive like a dump truck:)
>> Regards,
>> Jim
>>
>
>

Drink

1 Pockets not very deep at the moment but time heals all wounds. Arms are
kinda lanky but not sure what that has to do with axles:)
2 Lookin' for as capable as I can get but don't do anything radical; mostly
inch-worm, creepy-crawly kinda stuff and camping.
3 Lockers are better but could live with open diffs til can upgrade later.
4 Got 33's for the past many years. Could go bigger to keep dimensions
right. Not interested in size, though, just ability.
5 Just swapped in a Chevrolet 350 w/TPI, headers, etc. It's backed up with
a NV4500 & Dana 300. Plenty of torque and power. Gonna upgrade it again
and the numbers will go up (only 'cause I haven't rebuilt yet).
6 Outstanding question. I've owned it for somewhere around 13 years now and
would never part with it. It's a sentimental hobby car since my son used to
love beating it with a hammer as a toddler (lost him shortly thereafter:(
All I can tell people is, "It's a Jeep thing. You wouldn't understand."
Anyway, it's not meant to be a bogger, rock-crawler or pit-beater. It's a
quest for the best all around 4WD I can build based on design; 44" tires and
10' tall isn't cool unless it's optimum (33" tires were it due to handling
and brakes).
Basically looking for the best starting alternative to look for and have
all the time in the world to upgrade/modify from there. I have two little
girls to beat on it with a wrench now:)
Best Regards,
Jim

"Carl" <carlsaiyed@REMOVE.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:7_SdnRVY1bcHsC7enZ2dnUVZ_tednZ2d@comcast.com. ..
> Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
> 1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
> 2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
> 3. Do you want lockers?
> 4. What size tires do you want to run?
> 5. What engine do you have?
> 6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?
>
> I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
> without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires
> w/o lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I probably
> wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.
>
> Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
> spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If you
> do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.
>
> Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the axles
> you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get the best
> deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be narrowed
> to fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably be illegal
> someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.
>
> I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best
> bang for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford Explorer
> and keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same width as
> your front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts, than your AMC
> 20 and has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your CJ has the
> wide-track or narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will likely chime
> in.
>
> HTH.
>
> Carl
>
>
> "Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
> news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
>> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
>> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
>> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching
>> and scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny shop
>> recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's from
>> a 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14 bolt
>> rear and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
>> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
>> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the silver
>> bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this and
>> don't like this about it" hits.
>> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
>> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over or
>> under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
>> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off the
>> bat.
>> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
>> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
>> drive like a dump truck:)
>> Regards,
>> Jim
>>
>
>

Carl

I would say get an 8.8" rear w/disc brakes and lock it up. It should come
with 3.55, 3.73, or 4.10 gears.The stock D30 will be fine unlocked, and with
a locker in the back, you'll do really well. I think that setup with 4.10 or
4.56 gears would be optimal. Usually 33's couple with 4.56's, but withthe
350 and your transmission I don't know. What gears do you have now?

Carl


"Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
news:dovbq1$dhd$1@news.utelfla.com...
>1 Pockets not very deep at the moment but time heals all wounds. Arms are
>kinda lanky but not sure what that has to do with axles:)
> 2 Lookin' for as capable as I can get but don't do anything radical;
> mostly inch-worm, creepy-crawly kinda stuff and camping.
> 3 Lockers are better but could live with open diffs til can upgrade later.
> 4 Got 33's for the past many years. Could go bigger to keep dimensions
> right. Not interested in size, though, just ability.
> 5 Just swapped in a Chevrolet 350 w/TPI, headers, etc. It's backed up
> with a NV4500 & Dana 300. Plenty of torque and power. Gonna upgrade it
> again and the numbers will go up (only 'cause I haven't rebuilt yet).
> 6 Outstanding question. I've owned it for somewhere around 13 years now
> and would never part with it. It's a sentimental hobby car since my son
> used to love beating it with a hammer as a toddler (lost him shortly
> thereafter:( All I can tell people is, "It's a Jeep thing. You wouldn't
> understand." Anyway, it's not meant to be a bogger, rock-crawler or
> pit-beater. It's a quest for the best all around 4WD I can build based on
> design; 44" tires and 10' tall isn't cool unless it's optimum (33" tires
> were it due to handling and brakes).
> Basically looking for the best starting alternative to look for and have
> all the time in the world to upgrade/modify from there. I have two little
> girls to beat on it with a wrench now:)
> Best Regards,
> Jim
>
> "Carl" <carlsaiyed@REMOVE.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:7_SdnRVY1bcHsC7enZ2dnUVZ_tednZ2d@comcast.com. ..
>> Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
>> 1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
>> 2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
>> 3. Do you want lockers?
>> 4. What size tires do you want to run?
>> 5. What engine do you have?
>> 6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?
>>
>> I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
>> without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires
>> w/o lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I
>> probably wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.
>>
>> Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
>> spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If
>> you do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.
>>
>> Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the
>> axles you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get
>> the best deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be
>> narrowed to fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably
>> be illegal someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.
>>
>> I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best
>> bang for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford
>> Explorer and keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same
>> width as your front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts,
>> than your AMC 20 and has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your
>> CJ has the wide-track or narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will
>> likely chime in.
>>
>> HTH.
>>
>> Carl
>>
>>
>> "Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
>> news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
>>> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
>>> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
>>> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching
>>> and scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny
>>> shop recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's
>>> from a 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14
>>> bolt rear and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
>>> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
>>> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the
>>> silver bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this
>>> and don't like this about it" hits.
>>> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
>>> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over
>>> or under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
>>> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off
>>> the bat.
>>> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
>>> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
>>> drive like a dump truck:)
>>> Regards,
>>> Jim
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Carl

I would say get an 8.8" rear w/disc brakes and lock it up. It should come
with 3.55, 3.73, or 4.10 gears.The stock D30 will be fine unlocked, and with
a locker in the back, you'll do really well. I think that setup with 4.10 or
4.56 gears would be optimal. Usually 33's couple with 4.56's, but withthe
350 and your transmission I don't know. What gears do you have now?

Carl


"Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
news:dovbq1$dhd$1@news.utelfla.com...
>1 Pockets not very deep at the moment but time heals all wounds. Arms are
>kinda lanky but not sure what that has to do with axles:)
> 2 Lookin' for as capable as I can get but don't do anything radical;
> mostly inch-worm, creepy-crawly kinda stuff and camping.
> 3 Lockers are better but could live with open diffs til can upgrade later.
> 4 Got 33's for the past many years. Could go bigger to keep dimensions
> right. Not interested in size, though, just ability.
> 5 Just swapped in a Chevrolet 350 w/TPI, headers, etc. It's backed up
> with a NV4500 & Dana 300. Plenty of torque and power. Gonna upgrade it
> again and the numbers will go up (only 'cause I haven't rebuilt yet).
> 6 Outstanding question. I've owned it for somewhere around 13 years now
> and would never part with it. It's a sentimental hobby car since my son
> used to love beating it with a hammer as a toddler (lost him shortly
> thereafter:( All I can tell people is, "It's a Jeep thing. You wouldn't
> understand." Anyway, it's not meant to be a bogger, rock-crawler or
> pit-beater. It's a quest for the best all around 4WD I can build based on
> design; 44" tires and 10' tall isn't cool unless it's optimum (33" tires
> were it due to handling and brakes).
> Basically looking for the best starting alternative to look for and have
> all the time in the world to upgrade/modify from there. I have two little
> girls to beat on it with a wrench now:)
> Best Regards,
> Jim
>
> "Carl" <carlsaiyed@REMOVE.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:7_SdnRVY1bcHsC7enZ2dnUVZ_tednZ2d@comcast.com. ..
>> Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
>> 1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
>> 2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
>> 3. Do you want lockers?
>> 4. What size tires do you want to run?
>> 5. What engine do you have?
>> 6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?
>>
>> I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
>> without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires
>> w/o lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I
>> probably wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.
>>
>> Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
>> spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If
>> you do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.
>>
>> Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the
>> axles you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get
>> the best deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be
>> narrowed to fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably
>> be illegal someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.
>>
>> I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best
>> bang for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford
>> Explorer and keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same
>> width as your front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts,
>> than your AMC 20 and has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your
>> CJ has the wide-track or narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will
>> likely chime in.
>>
>> HTH.
>>
>> Carl
>>
>>
>> "Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
>> news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
>>> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
>>> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
>>> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching
>>> and scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny
>>> shop recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's
>>> from a 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14
>>> bolt rear and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
>>> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
>>> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the
>>> silver bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this
>>> and don't like this about it" hits.
>>> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
>>> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over
>>> or under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
>>> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off
>>> the bat.
>>> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
>>> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
>>> drive like a dump truck:)
>>> Regards,
>>> Jim
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Carl

I would say get an 8.8" rear w/disc brakes and lock it up. It should come
with 3.55, 3.73, or 4.10 gears.The stock D30 will be fine unlocked, and with
a locker in the back, you'll do really well. I think that setup with 4.10 or
4.56 gears would be optimal. Usually 33's couple with 4.56's, but withthe
350 and your transmission I don't know. What gears do you have now?

Carl


"Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
news:dovbq1$dhd$1@news.utelfla.com...
>1 Pockets not very deep at the moment but time heals all wounds. Arms are
>kinda lanky but not sure what that has to do with axles:)
> 2 Lookin' for as capable as I can get but don't do anything radical;
> mostly inch-worm, creepy-crawly kinda stuff and camping.
> 3 Lockers are better but could live with open diffs til can upgrade later.
> 4 Got 33's for the past many years. Could go bigger to keep dimensions
> right. Not interested in size, though, just ability.
> 5 Just swapped in a Chevrolet 350 w/TPI, headers, etc. It's backed up
> with a NV4500 & Dana 300. Plenty of torque and power. Gonna upgrade it
> again and the numbers will go up (only 'cause I haven't rebuilt yet).
> 6 Outstanding question. I've owned it for somewhere around 13 years now
> and would never part with it. It's a sentimental hobby car since my son
> used to love beating it with a hammer as a toddler (lost him shortly
> thereafter:( All I can tell people is, "It's a Jeep thing. You wouldn't
> understand." Anyway, it's not meant to be a bogger, rock-crawler or
> pit-beater. It's a quest for the best all around 4WD I can build based on
> design; 44" tires and 10' tall isn't cool unless it's optimum (33" tires
> were it due to handling and brakes).
> Basically looking for the best starting alternative to look for and have
> all the time in the world to upgrade/modify from there. I have two little
> girls to beat on it with a wrench now:)
> Best Regards,
> Jim
>
> "Carl" <carlsaiyed@REMOVE.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:7_SdnRVY1bcHsC7enZ2dnUVZ_tednZ2d@comcast.com. ..
>> Well, a lot depends on what you want to do.
>> 1. How deep are your pockets, and how long are your arms?
>> 2. What type of terrain do you intend to conquer?
>> 3. Do you want lockers?
>> 4. What size tires do you want to run?
>> 5. What engine do you have?
>> 6. What is your overall goal for this Jeep?
>>
>> I ran my 89 Wrangler 2.5L on 33's with stock axles (Dana 30, Dana 35)
>> without any axle problems. Generally stock axles are OK up to 33" tires
>> w/o lockers. I've heard of people daring for 34's and 35's, but I
>> probably wouldn't go that far. Lock it up and wave goodbye.
>>
>> Unless you want to lift your Jeep, keep it Spring-under. If you go
>> spring-over, you will get quite a bit of lift, on average about 6". If
>> you do want to lift it, during the axle swap is the time.
>>
>> Anyhow, assuming you want lockers and/or tires above 33", any of the
>> axles you mentioned will be just fine, I would pick the one You can get
>> the best deal on. Remember that a full-size truck's axle will need to be
>> narrowed to fit under your Jeep properly, it'll look silly and probably
>> be illegal someway, somehow if you don't have it narrowed.
>>
>> I suppose if you really wanted to pick one rear that would be the best
>> bang for the buck, it would be an 8.8" rear from a 96 and up Ford
>> Explorer and keep the Dana 30 front. The 8.8 is pretty close to the same
>> width as your front axle, has larger, stronger tubes and axle shafts,
>> than your AMC 20 and has factory rear disc brakes. I'm not sure if your
>> CJ has the wide-track or narrow-track axles, but someone who knows will
>> likely chime in.
>>
>> HTH.
>>
>> Carl
>>
>>
>> "Drink" <drink@gnt.net> wrote in message
>> news:dov91b$b73$1@news.utelfla.com...
>>> Okay, first things first: Don't kill me for asking:)
>>> Now... I want to do an axle conversion and need some advice on what to
>>> swap (Dana 30 frt/AMC 20 Rr, 11" drums). I've done a lot of searching
>>> and scrounging but can't find the right axles. A friend in a tranny
>>> shop recommends 10/12 bolt Chevy's. Another guy want $800 for Dana 44's
>>> from a 79 Cherokee. Another guy who customs Jeeps wants to unload a 14
>>> bolt rear and 44 front for $600 (and $1500 in labor).
>>> I've read everything from a 8.8 Ford rear to how Scout axles have
>>> unacceptable drawbacks (for me at least). I either can't find the
>>> silver bullet website or am overwhelmed with a million "Hey! I did this
>>> and don't like this about it" hits.
>>> Can you guys give me some solid advice on axle swaps? I don't mind if
>>> it's wide since that'll help handling. Don't care if it's spring over
>>> or under either since I live in the flatlands. I'd really like better
>>> braking, though. I just don't want to go straight to a machinist off
>>> the bat.
>>> P.S. tire size and gearing are a thought as well since I have a NV4500;
>>> granny 1st is unuseably low right now and wiiiide gear ratio makes it
>>> drive like a dump truck:)
>>> Regards,
>>> Jim
>>>
>>
>>
>
>