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Looking for some input on a dana 44ttb swap


1987ranger12394

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I want to do a 44 ttb swap but want to know what I'm getting into. I've read through the guide but have some questions.

Can I run stock first gen fenders after the swap?
Do I have to space out my coil buckets or can I run the stocks till I buy new buckets.
Do I have to have a lift for clearance issues?
 


4x4junkie

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If you don't mind the tires sticking way out (almost past the fenders), sure, you can keep your stock fenders. You may need to trim them considerably though. Most people go with bulged fiberglass fenders.

You might be able to angle the buckets outward and have it work... But no, to do nothing with the buckets will likely tweak the coil spring or cause it to bow badly.

I suspect a lift is required to clear the larger D44 differential housing, however it doesn't need to be much (a set of 1.5" STX Highrider brackets should be sufficient).

This assumes you'll be mounting the D44 at it's full width (I did a narrowed one myself and discovered little advantage to the D44 over a D35 other than the bigger brakes, which the D44 brakes can be mounted to the D35 as well).
 

1987ranger12394

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This assumes you'll be mounting the D44 at it's full width (I did a narrowed one myself and discovered little advantage to the D44 over a D35 other than the bigger brakes, which the D44 brakes can be mounted to the D35 as well).
Thanks I was just trying to see what I could and couldnt get away with buying beforehand.
If theres really no big advantage to the d44 than I'll just do the d35 less work that way.
 

4x4junkie

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Bronco II
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2.9 V6
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2.9L V6
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2WD / 4WD
4WD
Tire Size
35x12.50R15
The D44 gears & differential are obviously stronger, but unless you throw some $$$ at it in the form of aftermarket alloy axle shafts, you likely won't benefit from that difference, being that the axle yokes & u-joints are the weak link on either axle, which are the same on both (Spicer 5-297X, superseded by 5-760X).

The D35 is a quite good axle with a few small upgrades, detailed in the Axles section.
 

1987ranger12394

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The D44 gears & differential are obviously stronger, but unless you throw some $$$ at it in the form of aftermarket alloy axle shafts, you likely won't benefit from that difference, being that the axle yokes & u-joints are the weak link on either axle, which are the same on both (Spicer 5-297X, superseded by 5-760X).

The D35 is a quite good axle with a few small upgrades, detailed in the Axles section.
In all honesty I'm only looking to run 35s and I only get to wheel once or twice a year. So I dont get to crazy. But the d28 wont hold up to anything so any axle is an upgrade
 

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