Front axle swap in J4000

[tsechrist]

I have a '72 J4000 3/4 ton with 8 lug rears (Dana44HD front and Dana 60 rear). I'd like to swap the front axle out for a newer open knuckle with disc brakes. I know I can use a '74 and up J20 front axle with some mods to mount to my post style frame. I also know that Chevy did a pass drop Dana44HD on 1970's 3/4 ton trucks. Is this an option? Anyone that did this have any suggestions or input?

Thanks,
Tim

[KaiserMan]

Dodge (70'-80's) D44's are a good fit. They are similar in width and give you plenty of room to weld new perches on without being on the cast differential

I'd be interested in buying everything from the backing plates out if you do swap your front out. I have a 69 with the same front and rear axles.

[Wzzl13]

Be watchin' this post. '71 J4000 here.

[Josh D]

X2 on the Dodge axle. I have an '85 in mine. Mines 5 lug 1/2 ton, but I'm sure spindles and 8 lug hubs from any other 3/4 ton d44 would swap.

[KaiserMan]

X2 on the Dodge axle. I have an '85 in mine. Mines 5 lug 1/2 ton, but I'm sure spindles and 8 lug hubs from any other 3/4 ton d44 would swap.

And here's the just the man you want to talk to about the Dodge swap OP!

You still out there OP?

[77Deepj20]

I'm using a 1977 dodge dana60. Fit right in, spring spacing is slightly wider but it works.

Steering is easy to hook up too since its a kingpin axle, I only needed to make a longer adjuster for the drag link and pick up a proper steering arm.

[Josh D]

And here's the just the man you want to talk to about the Dodge swap OP!

Lol! I have to go back and look at the pictures I took to remember what I did!!

[KaiserMan]

I'm using a 1977 dodge dana60. Fit right in, spring spacing is slightly wider but it works.

Steering is easy to hook up too since its a kingpin axle, I only needed to make a longer adjuster for the drag link and pick up a proper steering arm.

Not really applicable to the OP. He as a much wider front spring spacing than your J20. I have a Dodge D60 in my 71, had to weld new perches on it. Passengers side is almost on the outer edge of the original cast in spring perch on the pumpkin.