There has been several comments regarding the c-clips coming out over time and the cap comes out and the ears break causing shaft failure. Is this the Main Cause of shaft breakage? If so, there is an "Almost Alloy" kit consisting of clips that get welded onto the cap ends that prevent them from coming out if the c-clip come out. I used these on the hp30 in my ZJ and have had no problems. For you Rubicon owners, is this an option for our d44 axle shafts?

 

I lost a cap due to the c-clip falling out. I caught it in time and only had to replace the u-joint.

I tack welded the cap to prevent it from coming off again. I have also looked at the IRO almost alloy kit, it is temping at only $30 bucks.

 

The kit is pretty simple to put on. You just have to be patient and weld one small spot at a time and let it cool to protect the grease and seals. The 44 u-joint has the clearance to add the clips, so I don't see a down side to it.