..if you have'nt already committed to either the D44 or Ford 8.8 I would cordially advise you to first check the
archives as the "D44 or Ford 8.8 axle" question comes up frequently.(..maybe hourly..? )-Again the earlier posts suggested your local area spring shops for new U-bolts and leaf-spring perches-I would also add if you have a local trade-school/community college/night school find some way to take a few "brush-up" welding lessons MIG-ARC, Gas,. to save yourself some hard-earned "moolah"-For example look around here at
and online for an write-up called "Bullet-Proof-Perches" and an excellent cost-saveing article by the generous Alyn Loya, aka MaXJohnson called "Easy Shock Mounts"-Also here is some relevant information that might be helpful with the choice and selection of the 95-03 Ford 8.8:
8.8 axle with DISC-BRAKES + 31-SPLINE AXLES ! should measure 64" WMS to WMS and difference is only 3/4" .-stock XJ axle length is 59" You might want 1-1/4" hub centric wheel spacers
Other Parts Needed
Brake pads (P/N 6674, AutoZone) =$39.99
Calipers (P/N's C576 &C577, AutoZone)
Guide pins (2 - H15068, AutoZone)
Banjo bolts (Ford P/N 385116-S2)
Hoses (2 - NAPA P/N 380376 & 380528 )=$51.79
E-brake cables (Mopar P/N's 52008904 & 05)
"T" Hose (P/N 380889, NAPA)
2 - Hard Brake Lines(NAPA P/N 813-1208 & 813-1204 )=$6.73
Yoke Adapter (Spicer P/N 2-2-1379, NAPA)
Yoke bolts (Ford P/N N800594-S100)
..whatever your decision on the ,D44 or 1995-03 Ford 8.8 rear axle-Good luck
-BILLXJ