how strong the dana 30 ?

Looking to put bigger tires on mt cj5 and was wondering if its more cost effective to put money int the 30 or to buy a 44? If I ues a 44 then what is a good junk yard swap for the narrow track. I am having alcan make me new longer springs and will redo spring purches anyway..

 

Answer these questions first.

What size tires?
Front locker?
Engine size?
How much trail use?

 

There is no direct replacement narrow track 44 front for the CJ. The closest fit is the Wagoneer 44 front but will still require the front springs to be mounted outboard of the frame. That's why companies must build custom 44 front axles for CJ's. Good news is there are tons of companies out there doing this. I'd ask myself the questions and give honest answers to the questions CJ-X posed. We can help much better with more info. Nickmil

 

MIne survives 35x12.50 Swampers and this kinda stuff-



Won't say for how long tho...

 

If you are worried about the 30, put in some chromoly axles. Still a lot cheaper than building a new 44. I got mine from Alloy USA and they have the 44 size u-joints, plus they are massive compared to the stock 30 shafts. I've whipped mine pretty hard with 35" tires with no complaints.

 

I did the same but can't comment on performance because it's only a rolling chassis at this point. However, the outer axle ends are configured for disc brakes so you have to change the spindle grease seal to a disc brake type seal if you're retaining the drums. I used the brass thrust washer that came with the drum spindles but there was a lot of room around the OD of the washer so maybe the disc brake plastic thrust washer would have fit better. Not sure it matters.

Chilly

 

I also put chromoly axles in my 30. I have wheeled for 4 years on some pretty serious stuff. Finally broke an outter this year on a very hard trail when I got a boulder stuck between my tire and the fender well. Otherwise it has been rock solid.

I run 35x12.5 MTRs with 4:56 gears and a lock-rite locker with a Fuel injected 258, T-18 and tera-lows in the T-case. It all depends on how heavy your right foot is.

 

Amazing the beating that tiny ring and pinion stands up to.