So I blew apart one of my stock front axle stub shafts today. Does anyone have recommendations on the best heavy duty chromoly shafts? I need to get this beast back on the road quick.

 

I prefer RCV Shafts they are very smooth and have a lifetime warranty

RCV Ultimate Dana 44 JK Rubicon Front Axle Set

or you can go with a conventional U-joint type axle .

Ten factory has a ten year warranty

Ten Factory JK Rubicon, Dana 44 Chromoly Front Axles Shafts (MG22155)


the ones I posted above are for the Rubicon d44 but they also make Dana 30 shafts

David

 

Thanks David for the quick response. RCVs look like the way to go.

 

Keep in mind that you can buy two sets of ten factory for the price of one set of RCV. And with the warranty, not much to worry about. Sure, maybe a broken u joint but that beats your ring and pinion blowing up since that or your driveshaft will likely become the weakest part of your driveline.

 

The benefit of the RCV's is far greater than just the warranty . They are so Smooth while in 4wd. also they are super strong and so is the JK front Ring and pinion. Very few if any failures I have seen with that combination.

The u-joint is the weak link in chromoly shafts and usually when it breaks it takes out the shafts and the ball joints.

David

 

I've got RCV's and love them! The first time your locked and you need to choose a different line on the obstacle you'll love how easy you can turn your wheel without fighting the bind you normally get. Plus servicing the RCV's is easy pull the wheel off and grease them up. The draw back with them is that you need to remove the knuckle when you swap out your ball joints.

 

Ronin2120,

Thanks for the response. That bind is exactly why I blew the shaft. I am definitely liking the idea of smooth turning with locked axles. How long have you had the RCVs on your rig? Any issues?

 

I've had them for almost 9 months now. Wheeled them in sand, dirt, mud, rocks and snow without any issues. They have held up really well if I had to do it again I would without a doubt!

 

I will soon have a replacement right RCV rear shaft installed. Unlike the seemingly trouble free fronts, my rear RCVs to date have been nothing but trouble. Out of round, leaking seals. On my third set. Kraig at RCV has been good to deal with but overall they still have been a big PITA. And pain in the wallet!

 

I can't believe that rear RCV shafts would be worth it, up front, no question. Been running mine for 4 years this spring and they work great. But rear...no way, buy a good chrome moly and go with it.