dana 30 or dana 44

[Buckin75bronco]

I recently bought this 75 bronco but as I am getting into this truck and ordering parts, I realize that I don't actually know which front axle Is uder the truck. I also have know idea how to differeniate between the two.

Can anyone help with ifo to figure this out?

thanks

 

[oleguy74]

the 30's went out in70-71 every thing else is 44

 

[Bully Bob]

---- Like Oleguy says but, ----

"I also have no idea how to differentiate between the two."

Just to be sure someone didn't swap front axles.... there will be a large castle nut (D-44) on top of the knuckle, (where it swivels).

D-30 will have 4 small bolts holding in the kingpin at that same point.

 

[Customjob]

Dana 30

Dana 44

 

[Customjob]

also the covers are different

dana 30

dana 44

 

[Hatu]

---- Like Oleguy says but, ----

"I also have no idea how to differentiate between the two."

Just to be sure someone didn't swap front axles.... there will be a large castle nut (D-44) on top of the knuckle, (where it swivels).

D-30 will have 4 small bolts holding in the kingpin at that same point.

Heh Bob, what's the difference as far as strength? Is it in the axles, hubs, knuckles, or in the gears? Just wondering; because my 69 has the 30.

Hatu

 

[Bully Bob]

IMHO.,

It's not as big a difference as the 'hipe' makes it out to be.

With open diff's they'll both last nearly forever.

Installing "TADS" in there will bring out the weak points.

Here., it depends on the driver (60%) & the terrain (40%)

Those who do stuff that req. a locker in the front, will eventually snap something...(30 or 44) unless the axleshafts/u-joints, etc. are up-graded.

One would hope the dr. shaft u-joint would be the weak-point... Dirty/worn un-serviced hubs would prob. give up first in both.

All things equal.., two clean rigs, one with a 30 & the other with a 44, thru the same terrain, the 30 would likely twist/snap an axleshaft first.

I've been beat'n up my open D-30 for yrs & yrs..., and it's still as good as the day I bought this rig. If I ever had to open it up for service.., I'd put a "posi" in but never a locker.