Lots of Axle Talk
#11
JK Jedi Master
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Austin <--> Colorado Springs
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The best bet would probably be to hook up with some local jeepers and see about getting rides in jk's with that tire size and a couple different gear ratios.
When the axles are torn apart is a great time to add traction, so if you are thinking about lockers or limiteds at all, do some more research on that.
If you end up with a front d30 and 3.21's, you will need to replace the open carrier in that axle. Minor expense, but worth noting.
#12
JK Newbie
Thread Starter
35" rubber is easy on JK Rubicon Dana 44s. You might want to get some C gusset reinforcements welded in and maybe even as far as a truss on the front axle unless you plan on upgrading to a beefier axle down the road. I have been driving with 4.10 ratio and 35" tires for over a year now and will fully admit I could use taller gears. 4.56 for just a mall crawler is great, 4.88 puts it in the rock crawler range and could be equipped with 37s down the road.
To your point, he advised replacing the axles if 37" or more is desired.
I want legit capability, beyond the mall, lol, but 35" will do for RV dingy duties, moderate trail use, and keep her in the garage.
Thanks for the advice and info.
#13
JK Newbie
Thread Starter
The best bet would probably be to hook up with some local jeepers and see about getting rides in jk's with that tire size and a couple different gear ratios.
When the axles are torn apart is a great time to add traction, so if you are thinking about lockers or limiteds at all, do some more research on that.
When the axles are torn apart is a great time to add traction, so if you are thinking about lockers or limiteds at all, do some more research on that.
I hope to do just that, go on some Jeep runs and such.
Fortunately, or not, I started a little late, so I have a Hard Rock, with everything. Only compromise was the automatic (for the wife) and 3.73 gears...the topic of this thread.
I am really impressed with the amount of time the folks in here spend, trying to help eachother! Just like I have learned to love the "Jeep Wave" on the road, this is going to be a great experience.