Rear Axles

[TKDx00]

I tend not to read GEN2 builds because I didn't think I could get info for a GEN1. However reading about the 8.8 swap in Blackhawk13's build has got me wondering/hopeing if that can be somehow done for a GEN1. Has anyone tried a different setup other than a Dana 44? Are there other options that have readily available parts that can be used? I know the GEN1 rear is said to be pretty stout but if as in her case $700 for the beefier 8.8 and cheaper products like lockers, disc brakes ect. are a viable option to look into for future upgrades.

Thoughts, ideas?

 

[J Everett]

Really, any axle could be used. It's just a matter of cutting it down to size and welding on the proper mounting tabs in the correct locations. Off roaders and drag racer run tons of custom axles that were never intended to go under the vehicle they end up under. If you're not sure how to do it yourself, find a good off-road fab shop that has done custom axle work before, and they'll tell you all you need to know. Also, for more info on the 8.8, check out RangerPowerSports.com and some of the Jeep forums, and there'll be lots of info on customizing that axle for off road use.

The Ford 9" axle is another great option, with lots of parts available.

 

[TKDx00]

J... forgive my lack of knowledge on this, I'm just starting to look into it really and don't know what/how to ask what I need to ask. Is it that the other axles are stronger than the 233B's and/or parts and "stuff" are easier/cheaper to comeby? I know I'd like to put disc brakes in the rear but that would mean a swap of some sort. Just trying to see what's available at a reasonable price cause I ain't rich. lol.

 

[gamecock257]

I'm sure it can be done. But if it were me and I was looking at swapping out a Gen 1 rear axle with an 8.8, I might consider skipping the 8.8 and going with a 9".

 

[drbandkgb]

8.8 is a great axel for a wrangler.. but I would go with a 9 for the Xterra.. Seems like the 8.8 is a hair to narrow for us

 

[TKDx00]

I'm sure it can be done. But if it were me and I was looking at swapping out a Gen 1 rear axle with an 8.8, I might consider skipping the 8.8 and going with a 9".

8.8 is a great axel for a wrangler.. but I would go with a 9 for the Xterra.. Seems like the 8.8 is a hair to narrow for us

Thanks guys! 9" is the choice if I do this. Now I need to find some shops that do this kind of work to see how envolved this really is and if it really worth the time, money and effort.

 

[midget]

The 8.8 out of the f150 would be wide enough but I also second the 9" compared to other options. There CHEAP!!!! and you can get a 3rd member with gear and minispool INSTALLED for under $400. The (" has so much aftermarket support from oval track racing to rock crawling to drag racing you literally can do whatever you want to them.

 

[J Everett]

Kelly's 8.8 was too wide and had to be narrowed to fit her X. It came off a Crown Vic, so it was quite wide to start. An 8.8 from a Ranger or Mustang probably would be too narrow.

TKD, yeah, the 8.8 and 9" are common swaps because of the number of available gear ratios, lockers, Limited slips, brake options, etc. The 9" is a little tougher, but the 8.8 is plenty tough for an Xterra. The 9" has been around for a hell of a lot longer though, and there are more parts available.

 

[TKDx00]

Ok then let me ask this here... for 90% ONroad usage and 10% OFF (in my case) would folks suggest going to 5.nn gearing with 35's or 4.10? I asked because I saw what I thought were positive comments from people to Blckhwk13's regearing to 4.10's. I know there's a thread on re-gearing but it speaks on 5.nn's.

 

[J Everett]

I can't comment on first gen gearing. I have no idea what the stock gearing and transmission gear ratios are.

 

[TKDx00]

Ya know... After re-reading this and the re-gearing thread I've come to the conclusion that our current axle setup is just fine for what I need. I can go to 35's just need to regear to 5.13's. New axles should only be needed if I SAS. If I do SAS use a 9" Fords. If there is a reverse one for the front otherwise a Dane 44.

Thanks for the input everyone. Your comments have been very helpful.

 

[midget]

Any axle can be built to be a front but it can get pricey. The stock h233 is a good strong axle & the only reason to replace it would be to gain cheaper lockers/gears.

On your front question look up 609 axles, guys take a 9" center with d60 Cs.

 

[granitex]

You can always put rear disks off of a pathfinder on our axles, they just used drums to save some cash when they built them.

 

[TKDx00]

You can always put rear disks off of a pathfinder on our axles, they just used drums to save some cash when they built them.

You mean the Pathy disks will fit now without major modification?!?! Do I have to use the ones off a '00 Pathy??? Tell me more!!!!

 

[Silver dude]

Old pathfinders pre 98's yeah they fit however you need all the lines and calipers. Requires the axle flanges to be pressed off. The write up is on nissannut.com

Ben

 

[ChiXterra]

With the stock engine/drivetrain, 5.13's for 35's. I am either going to run 4.10 rears or 4.56 rears in my 9" when the time comes, with 4.11 or 4.56 up front in the D44 (V8 power).

 

[NMTerras]

You can run an isuzu rodeo rear if you want an easy swap with discs


Sent from my brain using technology

 

[rokdaddy]

^^^ What is the distance between WMS's on those?

 

[NMTerras]

^^^98+ I believe are same as ours, 62.5". It's a Dana 44.