D50 Issue and alternative advice

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Mar 9, 2014 | 01:42 PM

JOHN2001

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From: Temperance, MI

D50 Issue and alternative advice

I broke 2 of the 4 spyder gears on ny Dana 50. The 2 on the axles are still in good shape. I don't have the funds to fix it the "right way" right now. My end all fix is going to be a D60 in the front which I can't swing right now either.

Obviously I have no 4wd right now and was wondering what opinions I might find on putting multiple pieces of steel in there joining the gears together and welding the snot out of them.

This would only be used as a backup until I can fix it the right way. Nine times out of ten I don't need 4wd as my truck is a daily driver but the weather here in Michigan has been nuts... I got stuck in my driveway twice.... That's embarrassing.

I know I won't be able to turn worth a crap when in 4wd but if I'm stuck being able to turn isnt an issue.

If it's stupid tell me if it's a feasible option let me know. Thanks.

Mar 9, 2014 | 02:40 PM

djm1204

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Joined: Jul 2013

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From: Dunnellon, Fl

Improvise and overcome and it looks like you have a plan. Of course as soon as you lock your hubs you will have a "locked" front end regardless if you engage four wheel drive in the transfer case or not.

So under your circumstances it looks like a workable plan. I always say we have to do what we have to do when we have to do it.

Hopefully there will be some additional responses either agreeing or if we missed something they will point out the error in our thinking.

Keep us posted, what you do and how it works out for you.

Mar 9, 2014 | 03:58 PM

tjc transport

i ain't rite

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From: Marlboro Mental Hospital.

it will work in a pinch, but you will not be able to drive it with the hubs locked.

Mar 9, 2014 | 04:00 PM

JOHN2001

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From: Temperance, MI

Yeah that part I know and understand. It would only be used in an emergency. I'm trying to get a part number to see how much the spider gears are. If there out of the question as far as price goes for now I'll be doing some welding soon

Mar 9, 2014 | 06:21 PM

77mud

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2 axle shafts, shattered ring gear, 2 piece pinion (rung in half) and wrist.

All things I broke by cheaping out and welding my front end.

Mar 9, 2014 | 06:29 PM

tjc transport

i ain't rite

Joined: Mar 2005

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From: Marlboro Mental Hospital.

i really don't think the spider gears will be that much money, i bet you could get all the parts needed for the repair for under $100.
the bitch is tearing the whole differential apart to replace the gears.

Mar 9, 2014 | 06:47 PM

JOHN2001

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From: Temperance, MI

I found oe replacement spider gears for just under $100 yukon has an "upgraded" set for $130... That's a no brainer I'm gonna fix it the right way. As it turns out my other 2 spider gears I thought were good are junk too. I pulled all the shavings and what was left of the spider gears out today. I'll be ordering the upgraded Yukon set when the funds free up some.

I figure high torque, 38s and a Dana 50 is a recipe for disaster anyway. D60 will be coming when I find the one I want at the price I like.