Ok, so I'm about to RCD my 99 4x4 and I want to improve the off-road capabilities while I'm at it, specifically the diff/axle(?). Here's what I've got at the moment:

7.5 open rear w/4.10 gears (all stock)
Stock open D35 w/4.10 in front
Engine/Trans: 3.0L/automatic

Here's some options that I've thought of:

1) Leave the rear axle alone. Get an Aussie for the front and a lock-rite or no-slip for the rear (since those are my only options for the 7.5).

2) Replace the rear axle/housing with an 8.8, 31 spline, 4.10, L/S (prefer a torsen), and aussie lock the front.

3) Just Aussie the front.

4) Just replace the rear in option 2.

5) Just lock-rite or no-slip the rear.

6) Replace the rear w/an open diff 8.8 and Aussie it and/or the front.

That's what I've come up with so far. What do you guys think would be the best option? Is there another option that you think would be better? I'm completely open to suggestions on this. Please keep in mind, (before you tell me to SAS and then lock it) I am on a budget. I'm looking for the best "bang for the buck" here.

Thanks Guys (and Gals)

 

Replace the rear with an Exploder 8.8, then Lock-right the rear first if you are on a budget.

Get a good set of tires on there first, then worry about locking the front. Consider re-gearing as well with that 3.0. Are you auto or manual? Is it going to be used on the street alot?

 

I'd get a 31 spline axle with a selectable locker in the rear and Aussie in the front. Do it right the first time.

 

I have an auto and it is used on the street a lot since it's my DD too right now. I'm planning on running 33's (probably brand new Mickeys from a buddy). I don't plan on ever running 35's so should I still consider re-gearing?

That sounds like a good idea, what kind of selectable locker would you suggest?

Thanks to both of you for your input!

 

Ox locker is the best IMO. Cable actuated, so you do not have to worry about air lines, or electrical connections.

Ox it!

 

x2

That's what I want to do eventually.

 

Since you have a 3.0L, re-gear it. Don't pull everything apart and NOT install new gears.


Option # 7) 4.56 gears and aussie locker front. 31 spline explorer rear axle with discs, 4.56 gears and aussie locker.

Not a chance I would put a locker in a 7.5. I would also hate running a 3.0L auto with 33's and 4.10's. No sense in getting the front diff out without re-gearing. no sense in swapping in a new rear axle and locker without re-gearing, in my opinion.
The aussie locker is strong, and it is plenty smooth for a daily driver with an automatic.

 

yeah, definitely replace the rear and lock that before the front. oh, and once you go 33's you will eventually want 35's so never say never lol.

 

I'd get an explorer axle, buy a locker. Bring it to a shop and have them do that before you put it in (should be cheaper this way) Pull the front diff and bring it with the rear axle (should be cheaper this way also). Throw 4.56's in there, get aussie for front and whatever kind of locker or L/S you want in the rear.

 

Personally I'm going to with an assuie front with 4.10's, explorer l/s in rear with 4.10's. I'm going to put a 3" BL on it and put 33's on it some time. Right now its got 31's and with a new motor its reving a bit higher than it needs to on the highway and might be fine with 33's and 4.10's. I have a manual though.