Axle options w/disc brakes

[PurpleCherokee]

I'd really like to replace my rear axle (8.25) with one with disc brakes. I'd just upgrade my 8.25 but from everything I've seen it's probably cheaper and easier just to replace the whole axle. I've heard of a few options (crown vics and explorers, etc.) but there's gotta be a lot more than that. What about GC rear axles? Also, what have you guys had good luck with? Thanks a million

 

[RCP Phx]

Yes to ZJ brakes,no to GC axles.Also look at Liberty axles.

 

[PurpleCherokee]

Ok, kinda a dumb question but I'm new to looking for an axle swap. So what specs am I looking at when determining if an axle will work? Width obviously... pinion angle maybe? Same number of splines and diameter? And will my gears interchange or should I look for an axle w/the same ratio as mine?

 

[Char-Broil]

basically if you want a bolt in swap go with a cherokee axle. a gc axle will not be bolt in as they are coil spring rear. from what i've read the zj discs are a fairly easy install. i put crown vic brakes on my d44 and it was not a big deal. with a good writeup, the proper tools, and enough time, anything is possible. you dont want to get into doing gears unless you are either a good mechanic or very daring. even what seems like a "straight swap" will require hours of setup that you don't want to screw up. if you do a new axle it would be best to find one with the same ratio as the old one unless you plan on regearing both axles to a non-stock ratio (i.e. 4.88) what year is your xj?

 

[PurpleCherokee]

Mine's a 2000. I found the GoJeep write up. Is there anything else I should know?

 

[[email protected]]

Check out Currie Enterprises. I had them build me a set of ford 9 inch axels with all the stock brackets welded on, high pinions, 4.88 gears, 35 spline hardened shafts, I turn heavy bead locks with 38"s no problems. They were under $7000.00 and they are almost a strong as a d60, half the price, drop out third members, and much much lighter. great choice for your XJ

 

[BPB]

Just do a four link the mazda mpz has an 8.8 with discs

 

[mikeNtucson]

Just do a four link the mazda mpz has an 8.8 with discs

Izuzu rodeo has a D44 with 4 link and disk. The 8.25 is the stronges jeep axle you can have. Shafts are near size of the xjd44, but the tubes are thicker. The 8.8 explorer is a bolt in.

 

[troy6187]

the explorer axle is definatelt not a bolt-in swap. factory mounts must all be removed and new ones correctly positioned and welded on. but it is worth the time as its a good axle. make sure to weld the tubes to the center section.

 

[mikeNtucson]

the explorer axle is definatelt not a bolt-in swap

Oh :anon:

 

[PurpleCherokee]

I'm thinkin my best bet (cost/effectiveness) is to just convert my 8.25 to discs. So how's this sound... I can get slotted rotors from quadratec for $169 that are for the rear on a ZJ. Then I'm lacking calipers and I'm guessing some brackets and brake lines to make everything fit??? Am I gettin close?

 

[smccollamjr]

Off the top of my head...you'll need:

- calipers
- brake pads
- brake shoes (for the emergency brake)
- rotors
- backing plate
- some way to connect the e-brake

There are several good write-ups out there. I think upgrading your current axle will be the least amount of work. For a couple hundred more you could upgrade to an 8.8, but there's alot more work involved.