Currently have a 95 Ranger XL 4x4 w manual transmission. Im currently running a stock Dana 28 (610484) w 4.10 gear ratio. I guess the biggest question I have is should I source a Dana 35 and beef it up? Or should I source a Dana 44 and beef it up?

To my knowledge the 35 should bolt up bc it came factory on similar years that’s why I’m considering that route but this is all very tricky so any input helps!! Thanks in advance.

Dana sticker on passenger axle

Front of Dana 28

 

Ranger front axle info here: https://www.therangerstation.com/tec...les-1983-1997/

Going to a Dana 35 would be best if you are going to be running 31" - 34" tires
1993-1997 Ranger/B-series Dana 35 TTB would be plug and play

Dana 44 wouldn't be needed unless you are going with larger tires, or just want a Dana 44, lol

 

Thank you for all the input! Im currently running 31s, I’m looking to go up to 33s so the Dana 35 should be perfect for that. Do I need to worry about shorting the drive shaft or anything like that?

 

Yes, you will need a different front drive shaft

 

Okay, that’s good to know. Should I try to get my hands on an oem drive shaft from a dana35? Next question would that drive shaft bolt up to my transfer case?

also, would a true dana35 from a 91-94 Ford explorer be plug and play to my ranger? Rangers are know for using dana35 hybrid axles and I want a true dana35

 

Yes, get a Dana 35 not the hybrid, in the article above it has this picture: https://www.therangerstation.com/tec...d_example2.PNG
Visually they are quite different at the rear
1995-1997 would be best match as these years also have dual piston calipers, like you should have now on your 1995

1990-1997 Ranger 4x4 would have the BW1354 transfer case with Yoke style drive shaft connection, so if it had the Dana 35 it will be the right length