Dana 44 Axle

The factory dana 44 rear axle in my 74 will need new u-bolts. The general consensus is the axle tube O.D. should be 2.750 in. and all the u-bolt kits I can find are listed the same 2.750 between the legs. However my axle tube o.d. measures 2.800 in.( .050 larger). No one seems to have u-bolts that size. Doesn't sound like much but is that enough that most u-bolts would not fit? Maybe they can flex enough they will fit anyway. Has anyone run across this issue or do I have some type of oddball axle. I suppose I could have stengell bros. custom make them.

 

You don't have an issue. Thirty thousands or 1/32" won't even be noticed when installing the u-bolts.

 

I have mine made at Six States. Take the old one in and they match it. Might check around and see if there is a place in your area ..

 

The very slight difference in your measurement could be paint build up/thickness. I wouldn't worry about it. I suspect they'll fit. Might have to tap them down over the axle with a mallet.

As mentioned above, have them made while you wait at a local spring shop or big truck service center. Much cheaper.

 

napa has ubolts reasonably priced

 

Buy your Bolts here
Suspension U-bolts | Leaf Spring U bolts

 

^ This.
If they are tight going on, they might spread a little too wide to fit in the holes in the plate, but a (block/bar/pipe) clamp will help to squeeze them enough to fit through the holes.

 

Thanks guys for all the response. Looks like I need to do some research and make some phone calls. I did clean a small area really thoroughly, there was quite a bit of rust and old paint there. It made the diam. about .020 smaller. the tube is now about 2.780. Will be able to do a much better job cleaning things once the axle is removed from the jeep. I did speak to one u-bolt supplier that said they routinely maid all their u-bolts to a +1/16 (.062) tolarance anyway, which would be more than enough anyway.

 

You are seriously overthinking this. I find this common in folks with a machinist background at this level.

 

" The general consensus is the axle tube O.D. should be 2.750 in. and all the u-bolt kits I can find are listed the same 2.750 between the legs. However my axle tube o.d. measures 2.800 in.( .050 larger). No one seems to have u-bolts that size. Doesn't sound like much but is that enough that most u-bolts would not fit? "

No.....does not ' look ' like much , either. You may want to have a 16 oz. Ball peen hammer for use in tapping home the bolts that you order. Remember, it's a 46 year old Jeep .

 

a big pair of channel lock pliers to squeeze the legs back in after putting them over the tube has always worked for me. don't think ive ever just slid em on without some manipulation after. some jobs need a little brute force.

 

AH you guys have figured me out. Several years back I worked as a machinist for 8 years. I am sure your right, seriously over thinking things. You should try doing carpentry work with that background, will drive you nuts. Trim work not quite as bad.

 

Yes, I am sure your right. My brother said to me ''throw away them micrometers and get yourself three sizes of hammers and a pair of vice-grips then you can do mechanic work.''

 

most jobs need some kind of persuasion,a few need the bfh