86 cj D44 converted to 3/4ton full-floater???\'s
has anyone done this, heard of it being done, or know why it can't be done? this is what i am thinking: i have the D44 out of my 86 cj-7 currently under my 84 cj-8 and the M20 from the '8 in the '7. i am planning on taking a chevy 3/4 ton d44 front axle and cutting it down to fit in the front of the cj-8. i was going to run a d60 in the rear. but, would it be worth it to take the cj D44, adapt on GM 3/4 ton spindles, hubs, rotors, lockout, caliper plates, and calipers and have an 8-lug FF rear D44 with lockouts? i wouldn't mind if it increased the width, i'll just make the front to match. i also realize i would have to have custom shafts made. i recall reading where someone took d30 front parts and put them on the old cj narrow D44 so that they could have hubs on the rear. any input would be greatly appreciated. the main reason for going with the D44 over the D60 is weight, size, and ground clearance. the D60 will be free, but i will have to narrow it, have new shafts made, and adapt disc-brakes to it. thanks for any input, recommendations, or suggestions! matt
has anyone done this, heard of it being done, or know why it can't be done? this is what i am thinking: i have the D44 out of my 86 cj-7 currently under my 84 cj-8 and the M20 from the '8 in the '7. i am planning on taking a chevy 3/4 ton d44 front axle and cutting it down to fit in the front of the cj-8. i was going to run a d60 in the rear. but, would it be worth it to take the cj D44, adapt on GM 3/4 ton spindles, hubs, rotors, lockout, caliper plates, and calipers and have an 8-lug FF rear D44 with lockouts? i wouldn't mind if it increased the width, i'll just make the front to match. i also realize i would have to have custom shafts made. i recall reading where someone took d30 front parts and put them on the old cj narrow D44 so that they could have hubs on the rear. any input would be greatly appreciated. the main reason for going with the D44 over the D60 is weight, size, and ground clearance. the D60 will be free, but i will have to narrow it, have new shafts made, and adapt disc-brakes to it. thanks for any input, recommendations, or suggestions! matt