So I got a new quadratec catalog in the mail the other day and they have two new Differential Glide plates (Dana 30 here and Dana 44 here).

My question is, what would be better? One of these or a differential cover?

 

Those guide plates look pretty tough. Ridiculous in red, but that's easily changed.

 

I put the glide on, I figured it will protect the bottom and the front cover. My thinking is if I hit a rock in front its going to take out the tie rod it runs so close to the front cover and the glide turns up a couple inches so there is still protection for the cover.

 

I would go with diff covers, put them on and no more worries.

 

Riddler Diff covers from Northridge4x4.com

 

X2 on the Riddler covers. They are hell for stout!!

 

My question is, what would be better? One of these or a differential cover?[/QUOTE]

I think, with a diff glide, you don't need a beefier diff cover. With a beefier cover your still going to hang up on that rock, while with a diff glide you going to " glide " right over it.

 

I liked those old Nth Degree (now AEV) diff sliders. They stretched back to cover the u-joint too. I thought AEV was working on redesigning them for the "new" D44, but haven't heard anything about them for a long while.

 

Different answers to a problem. Both are good. The best answer may be both!
Now that should make your wallet happy.

Diff area is susceptible to damage from rocks to the stock diff cover.

Weak cover could cause damage to gears and could lead to leaks on the trail.
Also the large open area of the diff area naturally creates a weak point in the axle as a whole.

A strong diff cover strengthens the open area and connects the two sides with a solid piece of steel. It can also take direct hits to the cover and survive the impact and protect the gears.

A diff glide avoids the impact and allows the vehicle to pass over the obstacle easier.

Which is best for everyone. Each person needs to consider how they wheel and pick the best one for their application. I know that I want both of them. I am getting the diff cover first.

 

[QUOTE=Geeper4x4;943192]Different answers to a problem. Both are good. The best answer may be both!
Now that should make your wallet happy.

10-4 on " both". Unfortunately, my wallet's not that happy yet.