Dana 35 Front Axle Modifications

[Guggenheim99]

Going to be removing my front differential during my frame swap and planned to do the axle seals and pinion seal since they are leaking. I'll be having the cover off to do the fluid service. My question is, due to the spot it's in and needing to either use a suction pump or drop the diff to service it, I found this diff cover that has a drain plug. Anyone have experience or know if it will fit? If it does, it would definitely save time with doing the fluid service. Also while I have it out, do you guys recommend any kind of locker? I saw someone on YouTube put a lunchbox locker in. I'm going to be doing the manual hub conversion so it wouldn't be turning all the time like it normally does. Only when I lock the hubs. I'd mainly be using the 4wd in the snow and light off-roading. Nothing too insane. Or is the stock setup sufficient? Thanks. https://ruggedridge.com/p/rugged-ridge-boulder-aluminum-differential-cover/v/ford/ranger/2002/

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

So, I don’t know about the drain plug diff cover but it sounds like a good idea.

My Choptop had a lunchbox locker in the front for a few years. Honestly, mixed feelings about it. I actually took to running it with only one of the front hubs locked in unless I was off road. Ideally I’d run an E-locker in the front at this point.

honestly, the front hubs in the 98/99 Rangers are a weak point, like most hubs. The “live” axle is the stronger design.

 

[Guggenheim99]

I ordered the diff cover and once it shows up I will update here if it works and fits between the diff and frame

 

[pjtoledo]

never mind, bad answer deleted.

 

[Guggenheim99]

Diff cover came in and it does not fit. The bolt pattern and shape is wrong. I thought maybe the picture from the website was just a stock photo but I guess not. Oh well, I can just return it for a full refund so nothing ventured nothing gained. I do have a spare Dana 35 SLA from my frame swap project now so I may experiment tapping a plug into the bottom of that case to use as a drain plug