I found a '79 Ford high pinion axle with 4.10 gears, complete hub to hub, in perfect running condition for $500. I've been toying with the idea of changing my gears to 4.10s but I flushed the idea since I have no idea how to rebuilt a differential. Seems like axle swaps would be a better option for simplicity sake, and it would be cool if I could swap for a front straight axle and stronger rear while I'm at it.

Is this axle a direct bolt on for my truck? If so, is that a good deal at $500? Thanks guys.

 

I think the range for a d44 is around 200.00 in "as is" condition. (not rebuilt).
What would this go into?

 

This would be going into the truck thats in my signature of course

I did some research and this is what I found on a kind of "Dana 44 Explained" site:

I sent the seller a message and asked if this one is the leaf sprung or coil type. If it is the leaf sprung type then maybe his price is reasonable, since that site claims that type of axle is rare.

 

Yes the leaf sprung 44 are hard to find. I know of 2 and they guy wont sell . I think they were on camper spec ail super cab at least both of these are. Later

 

200 is average for a low pinion not a high pinion as he stated it was. they are quite a bite harder to find. but its not a bolt in swap. it requires a bit of fab.

 

If you are going to buy a used rear end and put it in you rig you should at the very least take the cover off and measure back lash, run out etc. and look it over.

Or better yet, rebuild that rear end and put it in your truck. Buy the Ford service manuals, BadShoe DVD and some tools. In addition to the obvious hand tools, you will need a dial indicator, micrometer, dial type inch pound torque wrench and some kind of spanner for the companion flange...I made mine + a few more odds and ends that the DVD will cover. The tools and manuals will come in handy later on with other projects, you will learn something new and you will get the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself and knowing that it will last...something you don't get when you install used parts. I spent probably 3 months on mine...off and on a little bit at a time, plus there were times that I waited for a while on parts...but I had another rig to drive. You can buy this rear end and drive with the old one still in the truck so that time is not an issue with working on the new one. If you reuse the axles, carrier, ring and pinion parts wont cost that much at all and the job won't be that tricky because odds are that the shims that you end up needing will be the ones that were already in there (unless someone has messed with it) which will eliminate hours of trial and error...that was not the case with me, and that has alot to do with why it took me so long. Something to think about...

EDIT: Wait a minute...is this for front or rear?

 

Okay, guess its out of the question. I also realized that in swapping the axles I'd have to buy a new lift kit to replace mine... Not lookin' at spending all this money right now. Thanks guys.