Tyler2786

Far, far down the road I'm planning on swapping my dana 30 for a rubi 44 with the locker but I'm not sure what to do with the rear non-rubi 44... I've got stock 4.10 gears already so thats not a problem, I'm just wondering if it would be worth getting the rubi rear end or if it would be just as good slapping some chromoly shafts in mine...

Now, as far as a rear locker goes, I have the limited slip, and with BAS I'm fine with it and don't see a need to upgrade.

So, my question is what is the difference between the two Dana 44's and is that worth the extra grand over just getting upgraded shafts??

Thanks all!

DeepSky

I have the same long term plan. I imagine that when I do get my front D44 with lockers I will be keeping my rear D44. Just like you I have the LSD and 4.10's. As far as I know there is no difference between the X/Sahara D44 and the Rubicon D44 except the lockers.

Tyler2786

Yea, I know there arent alot of difference, but I did just realize that ours is a 30 spline and the rubi model is a 32 i think... does this mean one has larger shafts to fit the extra splines? Also, I know the axle tube thickness can vary on different axles, are these two the same or not?

muddpuppy01

shafts on the rubi are stronger and come with a locker thats the difference

seer1

I beg to differ. The Rubi shafts have a few more splines, but the metal and shaft diameter is the same. I have yet to find a place where a Rubi can go that I can't (having LSD rear and a Rubi axle/locker in the front.) If you're concerned about the slight advantage of the more splines, chromoly replacements are readily available. I'll be doing that sometime down the road.

pearl-drum-man

I think your plan is sound, I plan to do the same. I wouldn't invest in the Rubi rear unless the air locker was a plan, then you might make a case for it. In your situation I think you'll be fine, and upgraded shafts would probably be the way to go if so desired.

Piginajeep

If you set on replacing the rear axle, spend some extra cash and just put a mopar 60 in it, while its not a strong as other 60's like Solid and currie.

it's still stronger than a 44.

seer1

And that's a great way to go as well. Are these actually available yet?

Piginajeep

email from 4wd.com

seer1

I think I'd have to head to the hills and never come back down to justify a D60. Of course it'd give the repo guys hell to try and find me.