Wanted HD Output shaft for '80 Dana 300

[Pile of parts]

I know this one is kind of specific but just wondering if anyone out there has a HD output shaft for a '80 Dana 300? This is the version with the short tail housing. I think AA is the only company that makes a kit for this model. Let me know what you have or if there are any other options.

 

[bryson]

For what It's worth, it isn't very hard to make the later-style kits fit the '80 housing... There is just one bolt hole that needs to be added, and the rest fits just like It's supposed to. I have done it to a few (3 or 4) 1980 d300s and have yet to have an issue with one. I know of a few other RME'ers that have done it with good results too. Plus, the kit for the later cases is cheaper IIRC.

 

[Pile of parts]

I thought I had read a post about converting one before but I had never talked to anyone who had done it or gotten opinions on doing it. JB Conversions wants about $390 and AA wants about $100 more. I did find one for the '80 case with a CV yoke from AA on Quadratec for $399. Not worth the hassle to adapt for $9 difference. However, with the knowledge of being able to convert, I would consider a newer style kit if someone out there has one they want to get rid of. Bryson you'll have to call me and share your knowledge with me. (PM sent)

 

[I Lean]

There are some pics of how I did my 1980 case here. (post 25 if my link doesn't go right to it) http://www.rme4x4.com/showthread.php?59470-Willys-ground-up-build&p=552302&viewfull=1#post552302

I've done 3 this same way with no problems.

 

[Pile of parts]

Thanks Carl. Great to see pictures. Any special prep to the case? Did you machine the new surface flat or just a little smoothing with a grinder?

 

[I Lean]

Nothing really special--clean really well, preheat, weld. I used a grinder carefully--but machining would be much better, and would allow more accurate drilling and tapping too.