Semi Floating Axle Options

[Andrew]

Well I don't need the weight or expense of a 14 bolt or a Dana 60. I'm more interested in a good 1/2 ton replacement for my dated AMC 20. I have 31's and plan to run 3.73 gears and eventually swap over to a chevy 350/700R4/231 Setep from a 95 and newer chevy truck.

I've heard some folks talking about dodge rear axles BOLT IN!!! and you don't have to worry about the 1/2" spring perch difference with the chevy. Is this true??? I've got a Chrysler 9.25" in my Dakota and I love it. Would this work?

PS Its a wide-track

[ January 10, 2003, 07:04 AM: Message edited by: Andrew ]

[Stuka]

I didnt know the dakota's used thosse rears myself...I thought they ussed the 8.6" or what ever the size down one is that, but isnt it 5 lug anyways?

There is a semi full float version of the 14 bolt, but I dont think any lockers are made for it. IMHO, if you wanted a semi floater that has common parts and will bolt right up...grab a D44 out of a pre 80 WT cherokee. The ford 9" is probably the 2nd strongest semi full floater, except its 5 lug. Then the D60-2 which is a semi floater is strong. 35 spline axle shafts annd stuff. But also 5 lug.

[Sundowner]

I'd think a 12 bolt from a Chevy K1500 Z71 would work well.

[Bob Barry]

Despite the offset, a rear D44 from a 70's WT Cherokee would bolt-in the easiest.

There are always the Ford 9" and the Explorer 8.8" with discs, which, unlike the Chevy 12-bolt, won't spit out the axle when you snap the shaft.

Good thing about the 12-bolt is the 6-lug pattern.

If you want an electric rear locker, you could always use a late-model Landcruiser rear, which would have the right bolt-pattern.

[Andrew]

Thanks for the options guys, I'm thinking a 12 bolt will probably be my best bet since my front axle is now LEAKING!!!! and its the inner axle seal...grrrrr. So I'm going to re-grear to 3.73 and I know lots of 12 bolts came with 3.73's.

[scotty]

i think you should just rebuild your current rear,or replace it with another m20.

the m20 is a fine 1/2 ton axle if you honestly dont need anyting bigger. just as strong as a 12 bolt IMO,and slightly stronger than a 44.

dont forget the 12 bolt has C clip axlesahfts :eek: