[Guest]

I have a 78 CJ-5 with the dana 20 and 30 axles. I have 33x12.5 tires on it currently and I am in the process of putting a body lift on to get a little more clearance in the fenders but I noticed that the rear tires clear the springs by only 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch in the back. they are also about an inch from the frame. is this something I need to worry about and if so....what should I do. I have the body off now so I may as well fix it (if it needs fixing) now while its torn down anyway. I have heard of people putting spacers in or longer axles (I'm open to either) but I don't know much about it.
Thanks,
Bill

/wwwthreads_images/icons/cool.gif78 CJ-5</font color=blue> all fiberglass, chev.350 .30 over, TH350

 

[Guest]

You can continue to run the same width tire you have now or narrower, you can increase the rim width with the same backspacing, or you can decrease the rim backspacing with the same rim width. Any of these would insure that your clearance remained the same or increased.

BTW, your Jeep should indeed have a Dana 20 - but that's the transfer case. The model 20 rearend was manufactured by AMC./wwwthreads_images/icons/smile.gif

TEX

/wwwthreads_images/icons/wink.gif Got Mud?
G.U.M.B.O. Mud Racing

 

[Guest]

Ah, one of the joys of narrow track axles. You can do what Tex mentioned about changing wheels and backspacing or you can swap in different axles if you going to larger, wider tires. Spacers are generally not recommended. Wide track axles from a later model CJ are a cheap, direct swap. Scout Dana 44s or Waggoner axles are an option ...but will require some work to make 'em fit. Expensive custom built axles are also an option. BUT...whats your current situation and what at do you want the jeep to be in the end (if there is such a place)?

Right now your probably rubbing the rear of the front springs some on tight turns...not a big deal...just be mindful of the tight turns. If your airing down offroad, you may be getting a little closer to the rear springs. Also, flexed the rear tires will probably rub the tub some. Are the springs and/or frame shiny metal from contact? If your not rubbing and not going to wider tires, I wouldn't worry about it.
Shain

 

[Guest]

What, if any, are the pros and cons of wide track axles vs narrow track axles. And how extensive is the modification required to run Dana 44s or Waggoner axles. If I am going to swap axles is it worth swaping to Wide track or would I be better served to just go to dana 44s and be done with it. If any one has approximate prices that they have paid it would be useful. I guess I'm unclear in exactly what is required to modify the 44s. Would I keep my current breaks or would I need new axles and breaks.
Thanks,
Bill

/wwwthreads_images/icons/cool.gif78 CJ-5 all fiberglass, chev.383, TH350