89& up 10 bolt or d44 (both W/31 spline axles) ??

[bassmannh]

Do any of you guys have an opinion on which is better,stronger. Both have 31 spine axles, but Ive heard that the newer 10 bolts (89&up) have a stronger/larger pinion shaft diameter and bigger bearings, can anyone give me more info, I am in posession of both of these axles, the 10 bolt is currenly in my sub, (91 GMC) should I leave it and sell the d44, if the d44 had flat top knuckles it would be an even harder decision..what do you all think???

 

[Hossbaby50]

The stock carrier for the 30 spline 10 bolts are known to be weak. That is the only knock on the 10 bolt vs. D44. If the 10 bolt is already there leave it in my opinion. I run a 28 spline 10 bolt. Swapping to a D44 has no strength advantages for the most part over the 10 bolt. People will argue that they do but the weakest point of both axles is the 297X ujoint that BOTH axles run.

 

[6.2Blazer]

Both axles should have 30-spline axles, not 31. I really don't think one has any advantage over the other unless one has the gear ratio you want....otherwise it's not worth the swap.

 

[89GMCSuburban]

With a detroit and alloy axles, it can be strong. No point in doing that to a 10 bolt though.

 

[84_Chevy_K10]

D44s with flat top knuckles have smaller wheel bearings, weaker hubs, and in some cases, a 260x u joint.

Your best bet is probably a combination of the two axles. /forums/images/graemlins/thumb.gif Use the 10 bolt, but put the flat top knuckles and tie rod on it.