What would you do? 8.8 exp axle or dana 60 rear?

[t0x1k]

I have the option of trading my 9 inch for a dana 60 from a 1979 f250 with 4.56
Or build the explorer disc 8.8 I just bought. All it needs now is regearing and a locker.
The dana 60 will need a yoke, pads welded and rims, or adapters.

Has anyone run a full width rear and regular width front before? I was thinking I would buy some big wide rear tires for it.

 

[Chevelle Kid]

What front? D-35? If so go 8.8. The Dana 60 is a heavy pig, not worth the weight for 35s. I'd build the 8.8 and trade the 9 for the 60 just to have around if you get a d-60 front.

 

[t0x1k]

Yeah, I don't have any future plans to run a dana 60 front, a dana 44 maybe.

 

[ThatGuy]

I know the 3/4 ton 44 fronts on those trucks are wider than the 1/2 ton so id guess that the rear would match. Personally id get a better 9 than what you've got, they are better than both of the other axles listed.

 

[t0x1k]

I'm sick of the nine, it's hard to work on, and parts are expensive as all hell.
That and it's a 28 spline, the axles on my 7.5 measure .005 bigger than the nine axles. Not worth it IMO.

 

[ThatGuy]

Like I said, get a better one than what you have or upgrade the one you have. 31, 35, 40 spline axles. Any ratio known to man. Not to mention a drop out third is the easiest to set up, or you can buy one complete and bolt it in.

 

[t0x1k]

I've looked for another 9...Hard to come by around here.
I've already had 5 or 6 people wanting to buy my 9 but don't ever follow through. Guess $500 is too much.

I'm going to stick with my 8.8. I don't really need a 9 for what I do.