After breaking nearly every steering component while playing in the dunes at Pismo Beach, Daniel decided it was time to upgrade the front axle. Notice the tires facing different directions. Thats usually not a good thing.

Missing something? uhh, yeah, the entire front end.

Daniel decided to run a Reverse Rotation High Pinion Dana 44 front axle, which is commonly found in 77-79 Ford F-150's and Bronco's. Aftermarket parts are plentiful, and they are much cheaper than a true 1-ton axle (read: Dana 60). Making the decision a no-brainer.

This is a shot after the factory radius arm brackets were removed, the axle was powder-coated and the knuckles were re-installed. You can also see the tie rod which along with all the other steering components were purchased from Sky Manufacturing in Oregon. The steering arms and links were chromed as well.

Yukon Gear 4.88's and a Loc-Rite locker. We also rebuilt the entire front end including seals, bearings and u-joints. We used all Chevy parts from the knuckles out and attached the Ford inner shafts to the Chevy outer shafts. This was all done to keep the Chevy 6x5.5 bolt pattern.

A picture showing the axle under the Jeep along with the backing plates and spindles attached.

And now the finished product. All done with cross-over steering and high steer.

A couple pictures showing the width of the axles. We used 2" spacer/adapters in the rear to keep the track the same as the front axle. The Ford 8.8 has a 5x4.5 bolt pattern and is ~59" WMS (Wheel Mounting Surface) to WMS. The Dana 44 is ~63".

Everyone was extremely pleased with how the project turned out.