redrussell
Active Member
Ok so It looks like I won't have the axles I planned on having originally for my build so back to the drawing boards. I was originally going to use the 8-lug Dana 44HD and Full Float Dana 60 out of a '79 J20. Width would be roughly 65" and gears were 4.10. The things that factored into my choosing them were the width, gear ratio, 8 lugs(same pattern as other rigs) and the full float rear. I was going to run them stock till something broke and then custom order RCV internals or just order them after we move. Part of my problem right now is I have just under a year to have this fully up and running again to drive across country when we move again(military). I can't afford the cost of tons right now so I have turned my attention to the 3/4 GM and Dodge axles. I have had mixed results in my research on 70's and 80's axle specs though. I am looking for the Heavy Duty (HD) D44 front housing with the .5" axle tubes but can't get an exact line on what years etc that they were in. I know they are wider so I will just have to deal with it and run H1 rims to bring the tire back inside more. Hubs wise I plan to eliminate them and go to straight plates. Still working to see if I can get shorter hubs so they aren't hanging out there still. Flat tops and high steer setup. I would like peoples input for if I am missing something or not thought of something. I can find either a D60FF or a 14-boltFF for the rear I just have to match ratios. If I run a 14 i will have to shave it, too bulky otherwise and i will have to do disc rears eventually too to cut some weight. D60 rears I have hear mixed reviews about but most of those were from when i was into heavy mudding where 38.5's were small. Just looking for peoples thoughts and experiences since I am getting such mixed results in my searches.
