Rear Axle Production Date Question

I am restoring a early production 1972 cj5, The rear axle is a Dana 44 offset rear end with a production date of March 10 1970, it is a track lock also. For reference the engine has a build date of 23 August 1971, bell housing is July 1971. Could this be the original rear end. By all appearances it is

 

I'm certainly no expert, but it sure sounds original

 

What's the VIN? Every '72 model has a Dana model 20 transfer case and a centered Dana 44 rear axle. Which engine?

The VIN must start with J2 to be a '72. A '72 only has the AMC inline sixes or the 304 V8. if any of these don't match, then it's an earlier Jeep with a '72 title and VIN plate, or some other combination of different years.

FYI, an offset Dana 44 rear axle with flanged axles is worth a lot more than a correct '72 axle with a centered pumpkin.

 

The Vin starts with J2 and end with TH06xxx, It has a 304 V8 3 spd and Dana 20 transfer case, and yes it has flanged axles

 

pictures would be helpful over guesswork.

 

I guess the better question does anyone out there have a very early cj5 with a rear axle as I describe.

 

Offset is not original for your year, production date, yadda, yadda....

If it's still "factory" there is a tag that will be attached by the rear cover bolts.
What numbers are on that tag ?

Post a picture of the axle.