Is the Dana 35 a good rear end?

[snjcaldwell]

I currently have a 87 Jeep Cherokee with a stock Dana 35 in the rear. I am running 33/12.50 15 BFG MT'S with a 5.5 Rubicon Express lift. I want to go with a stronger rear end. Does anyone know the cheapest way to go about this?

 

[Ghost]

I would say a newer 8.25. or a XJ D44. No fab work bolt and go.

 

[Eagle]

I would say a newer 8.25. or a XJ D44. No fab work bolt and go.

Yeah -- what he said.

 

[What Rd]

Take a look at my post on the For Sale board entitled "locked 29 spline 8.25"
It's just what you're looking for.

 

[CW]

Is the Dana 35 a good rear end?

NO.
Yeah an xj d44 is probably the strongest, a waggy d44 will bolt on but has a 6 lug pattern. The model 20 out of the J trucks is a bolt on also but with a 5.5 on 5 lug pattern. If you consider a swap from a full size cherokee or a j truck, make sure they are narrow track instead of wide track. You can tell by the width of the fender flare, 4"s = WT, 2"'s =NT.
There are a lot of options if you are swapping both axles, if you aren't you are limited by the 4.5 on 5 lug pattern. An explorer 8.8 needs new perches welded, along with an MJ d44. I believe an early bronco 8.8 will require new perches and a wheel spacer. Good Luck.

 

[awr94903]

I think EBs had the ford 9", not 8.8".