2007 Jeep JK front axle upgrade advice

[Gak427]

Need Advice, I’ve got a 2007 Jeep JK (non Rubicon) 3.8L-V6 automatic w/126k miles, 4.10 gearing running 255/75-17 tires….
The Dana 30 front axle housing is bent and needs to be replaced along with a bent front drive shaft. I got an estimate from the local reputable shop for a used Dana 30 housing and reusing the stock 4.10 gearing with a new drive shaft for $5455 plus tax ($2850 used housing, $1525 drive shaft, $880 labor, $200 seals, fluid, alignment)….
I’m new to jeeps but I’m fairly handy with autos so I’m willing to do the work myself so here are what I think are the best options
1) $3700 -Dana 30 Front Differential Assembly for 2007 Jeep Wrangler LHD, 4.10 Ratio
2) $4135 -Ultimate Dana 44™ Crate Axle, Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK - Front Axle - 4.10 Gear Ratio, Open/Std Differential - 10032862

I’m looking for a daily driver that could do the occasional four wheeling nothing crazy,
I’m leaning towards the Dana 44 as I think it’s the best from future upgrades and resale value……

Does anyone have any advice and what brands to buy for the axle and the drive shaft?
Thanks for the help!

 

[Chris]

The Dana 30 will handle up to 35 inch tires just fine. I see no reason for the Dana 44 unless you just want it for the bling factor or don't mind spending more.

Those parches seem insane though, that's for sure. You could get a used axle in great shape for a lot less.

For the axle I'd just get a used OEM axle from an auto salvage yard. For the driveshaft I suggest checking out https://4xshaft.com/

 

[Gak427]

Hey Chris, Thanks for the info, when I look at the used axles, the prices I’m seeing are ~$2200-3000…. I’m a little nervous in that I want to do this just once and not inherit some else’s problems…. The $3700 for the new Dana 30 seems like the best path, thx again

 

[WSS]

Your pricing seems high. I see your in NY, that may be attributing to the price. I always thought Kali was a rip. lol. You can get a Tom Woods or even a Reel driveline for much less. Both really good options. I vote (since you are asking us how to spend your money) for a 44. Alloy axles and a Yukon locker.

Seriously, do lots of research. There are a lot of good 44 manufacturers. I’ve had Currie rock jock, teraflex 60’s, stock 44’s that I’ve built up. This is personal opinion of course but I’m not a fan of 30’s. I’ve bent more than one. Never had any issues with 44’s on 35” tires. I’m just testing 40’s on D60’s right now. seems strong but the verdict is still out.

 

[JeepJeezy]

Hey Chris, Thanks for the info, when I look at the used axles, the prices I’m seeing are ~$2200-3000…. I’m a little nervous in that I want to do this just once and not inherit some else’s problems…. The $3700 for the new Dana 30 seems like the best path, thx again

Those prices are high. Come check some yards here in PA. Try Harry's U-Pull It or Greble U-Pull It. I've used both. I have a dana 30 with 37's. The only thing done to it is a welded truss kit from RC. Zero issues. Now, I don't go crazy on the rocks and spin the tires either.

 

[Gak427]

Thanks guys for the info, if I did go with a salvage Dana 30, do you have any tips for picking a good one? Is there an easy way to tell if it’s bent? Also, I see a lot of used axles with high miles >175k, is that a concern? What do you think a reasonable price is? What website do you use for salvage parts in the north east? Lots of questions thanks in advance!

 

[JeepJeezy]

$600ish is about what they're going for here. Take a tape measure with you and measure top points and bottom points on the axle. A speed square or a long level would help too. Change the oil no matter what you do if you do buy 1.

 

[pc1p]

Not sure what part of NY you're in, but LQK has some good options here in the northeast in general. You can find a take-out 4.10 fairly inexpensively, usually under $600. A new Mopar driveshaft is ~$500, though there are some aftermarket options too (though unnecessary for your needs). WIth some basic hand tools and a helper, you should be able to swap your front axle assembly out over a weekend day.