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1974 Matching Rear End To Frame

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by KEWM, May 10, 2022.

  1. KEWM

    KEWM New Member

    Purchased 1974 cj 5 in a pile of parts. Put together a rolling frame. Now having problems with getting the transmission to line up with the rear end. The rear end is new to this truck. Is the diff location in the middle or offset.
     
    KEWM, May 10, 2022
    #1
  2. colojeepguy

    colojeepguy Colorado Springs

    I'm a little confused by your question, but 71 and prior CJs have the rear differential offset to the passenger side. 72 and newer are centered.
     
    colojeepguy, May 10, 2022
    #2
    a72cj likes this.
  3. FinoCJ

    FinoCJ 1970 CJ5 Staff Member

    OEM 74 would have centered rear D44 that worked with the center output of the D20 transfer case. If you have anything else, you have something not original...not unusual for a pile of parts.

    As you mention the frame in the title, its possible the rear axle is out of a 76 and later CJ that had the spring perches wider to work with the wider rear frame of the later CJs.
     
    Last edited: May 11, 2022
    FinoCJ, May 10, 2022
    #3
  4. nickmil

    nickmil In mothballs.

    Centered rear is somewhat a misnomer. The carrier is centered as the axle shafts are the same length left and right, however the drive pinion is offset about 4 or so inches so the yoke and rear part of the driveline is not centered in the chassis. As was mentioned the ‘72-‘75 Dana 44 rear was built to work with the 20 transfer case which has the rear output in line with the transmission and engine crankshaft so it is considered “centered”.
     
    nickmil, May 10, 2022
    #4
    Ol Fogie, timgr and OzFin like this.
  5. timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    timgr, May 11, 2022
    #5