Dana 30 Durability?
#11
Super Moderator
As long as you don't beat on it stupidly you'll be fine.
I've run 35s, 36s, and 37s on a stock D 30 with zero problem, and this includes 4 Moab trips. My avatar is my old 08 sitting on 36" Iroks on The Escalator.
As long as you drive smart you'll be good to go but you also need to realize it's not designed to handle that stress and won't hold up over time. Start saving for either a replacement or work on strengthening yours up.
I've run 35s, 36s, and 37s on a stock D 30 with zero problem, and this includes 4 Moab trips. My avatar is my old 08 sitting on 36" Iroks on The Escalator.
As long as you drive smart you'll be good to go but you also need to realize it's not designed to handle that stress and won't hold up over time. Start saving for either a replacement or work on strengthening yours up.
I have wheeled with CJ7nvrstk a couple of times and he does not take the easy line and goes where the big boys go.
R/
Will
#12
JK Newbie
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My old '97 has over 160K miles on it's D30/4.56/35s. I never upgrade axle joints and use them as a fuse to protect the R&P. I've only broken one joint over the years and never an R&P. Keep in mind that going down an obstacle is generally much harder on your D30 than going up... depending on your driving style.
Start spinning your wheels and all bets are off!
Start spinning your wheels and all bets are off!
#13
JK Jedi
If you drive like a dumbass you will likely break something, pick good lines, follow your spotter if you have one, know your limits and you should be fine.
#14
JK Newbie
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#15
JK Enthusiast
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#16
JK Freak
In my opinion, the absolute best first offroading experience is to go where there are tons of people celebrating the sport like this Kansas Rocks event will likely be. You'll have an awesome time and probably won't break anything if you're careful. But the good thing is that if you do, I guarantee there's a bunch of people there that will help get you out of a jam, so don't be worried too much and just have a good time. =)
Edit: Also, remember to listen to the guys that have lots of experience, they will understand the lines better and you will learn how to judge the lines yourself. It's not rocket science, but there is definitely an art to it.
Edit: Also, remember to listen to the guys that have lots of experience, they will understand the lines better and you will learn how to judge the lines yourself. It's not rocket science, but there is definitely an art to it.
#17
Former Vendor
The Dana 30 is strong enough for medium tires and non-aggressive driving. A challenge doesn't equal carnage. Don't let the nervousness equate to gas pedal and you will be fine. You will be hooked and your wish list will grow/change after actually off-roading.
Good Luck, keep the right side up and keep wheelin'.
#18
JK Newbie
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My old '97 has over 160K miles on it's D30/4.56/35s. I never upgrade axle joints and use them as a fuse to protect the R&P. I've only broken one joint over the years and never an R&P. Keep in mind that going down an obstacle is generally much harder on your D30 than going up... depending on your driving style.
Start spinning your wheels and all bets are off!
Start spinning your wheels and all bets are off!
#19
Former Vendor
Spinning happens, but again if you are spinning tires then you are not going anywhere.