10 Bolt vs. Dana 44

[Dilbert73]

I am looking to pick up some 3/4 ton axles, hopefully to have the front replaced someday with a Dana 60. I KNOW I want the Corp 14FF for the rear, but what is the best 3/4 ton choice for the front, 10 Bolt or Dana 44? In the "For Sale" forum, there is a 10B/14FF combo for sale in my area, in the ratio I want. I thought the 10B only came in the 1/2 ton vehicles. Does it really matter, between the two? I searched for info, including in the technical section, but can't find the answers. Your assistance is appreciated.

 

[Z3PR]

Both the 10 bolt and the D44 are 1/2 ton axles. They get called 3/4 ton when the have the 8 lug outers, and get paired up the the 14 bolt.

 

[big83chevy4x4]

they are almost identicle in strength, same ring and pinion size, same size axles, both necked down to the same size IIRC.

d44 were up to 79 and 10 bolts started in 78 from what i have found. you can get them in 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton.

i like a 10 bolt over a d44 because the axle shafts are easier to find.

 

[k5redneck]

go with the 10 bolt up front... axle shafts are cheaper and easyer to fined than a dana 44.

 

[tree_entz]

all very true,


but one thing that got me (i DID read this before) was the axle tube dia, and if I remember it was thicker on the 44.

I believe there is also a ring gear difference of an inch?

 

[84_Chevy_K10]

Use a 10 bolt

 

[Dilbert73]

OK, it's starting to make sense.

Any significant strength differences between the two? Other reasons to go with one over the other? Years to look for/avoid with the 10 bolt?

 

[Dilbert73]

Oops...too slow with my questions.

 

[85mudblazin]

The only real thing that the D44 has over the 10b is there are more aftermarket parts for them since they were used in many other different vehicle, the 10b is alot easier to find and you can swap on a set of D44 knuckles and be ready for crossover.

 

[original balzer]

85mudblazin beat me to it but i was going to say the d44 is easier to do crossover steering on

 

[Hossbaby50]

The D44 is only better for crossover steering if it came with flattop knuckles. Other then this advantage and the aftermarket advantage a 10 bolt wins in my opinion.

Parts are cheaper and easier to come by. Parts are newer and have had less of there fatigue live used up.

Harley