Should I buy the WT D44's???

I have a chance to get a pair of 1977 wide track D44's for my cj5 for real cheap. I currently have the d27 and tapered 44. Would this be a wise swap--/ I have heard that I shouldn't change axles to they break. Anyhow would this be an easy swap? I currently am running wrangler springs in the rear, and possibly need to change springs up front anyways due to strange shackles--a previous post. What type of fabrication would need to take place -- can the springs stay in stock position? I am sure you guys know way more than I do. I am also running a chevy 307/sm465/d18 with 35"s and the axles mentioned above.

 

If you mean WT Cherokee, those are pretty wide. Maybe wider than you want. I think the narrow track Wagoneer or Cherokee (full size) would be better. At least then you'll have some of the tire inside the wheelwell.

IIRC Dan (danstew) has done the Wagoneer axles - maybe he'll weigh in.

 

These are the WT cherokee axles -- I am not sure how long they are. The are from a 77 Cherokee with flat top knuckles and disc brakes. Rear is offset. Not sure if the front is offset.

 

Another thing to remember is that the wider axle will effect your turning radius. Not sure if that's a big issue for you, but it's something to consider.

- Evan

 

No this is not an “easy swap”. I’ve been research’n the exact same thing, I’ve got a set of Narrow Track Waggy Dana 44’s for the same reason.
You’ll have to outboard spring and shackle mounts front and rear and that includes some fabricating and welding. If that doesn’t bother you then proceed.

 

Like CorJeeper said you will have to mount the front springs outboard of the frame. The rear you can simply change the spring pad location on the housing. The Wide track Cherokee front axles are 64 1/2" wheel to wheel. Narrow track Cherokee Wagoneer axles are 61" (front) Wheel to wheel. The narrow track would be much better. Nickmil

 

Even with an offset rear end? I haven’t measured mine yet, just assumed since the front has to be outboarded.

 

I'm pretty sure you can still change just the spring pad location with the offset wide track but because that's all that's needed on a narrow track. Nickmil