Dana 44 Questions

1) The flanged '70/'71 dana 44 has larger diameter axle tubes than the earlier tapered axle. does the flanged version use U bolts with a larger radius and shock mount plates with a wider spread between the holes than what is used on the tapered version?

2) Will I be able to swap my 19 spline powerlock side gears for 30 spline side gears? is it just a simple swap or do other components need to be swapped also? and where can i find 30 spline side gears for a dana 44 powerlock?

 

I'd call R&P and Randy's Ring & Pinion. You'll need the change the clutches in the Powerlock too. Their spline count must match the axles as well.

 

my memory may be fading, but i rebuilt my 19 spline powerlock about 2 years ago and if i recall correctly, the clutches do not engage the axle shaft splines. only the side gears do. the side gears have external splines on them that engage the clutch pack, but no clutches engage the axle shaft splines.

and now that i think about it, i remember the side gears being a 2 piece design, so i would need the side gears and they're accompanying second piece - i think.

 

The 2 3/4" tubed flanged axle uses larger u-bolts and plates with a larger spread. The tapered axle housing is 2 1/2" diameter and uses smaller ones. The larger ones are extremely common and can be had pretty easily.
The 30 spline Powerlock side gears can be put in a 19 spline housing and vice-verse. The axles do not spline into the clutches, just the side gears so the clutches don't need to be changed if in good shape. The side gears spline into the clutches. 30 spline side gears can be hard to come by used. New they are available from Randy's Ring and pinion but cost around $200 or so dollars. They changed the pitch on the aftermarket side gears so they don't interchange. IIRC the kit from Randy's comes with side gears, pinion gears, and new clutches. One thing before I forget, the carrier bearings are different for the 19 spline case and the 30 spline case so you need the bearings for the application you have. Nickmil

 

thanks nick. you confirmed all i suspected.

 

I stand corrected.