My suggestion, GO BIG. I did and I am very satisfied. About six months ago, I have the same questions, what upgrade should I do with my rear ends. After surfing several 4x4 web sites, I learned that the best and most economical way to go GM 14 bolts rear, Dana 60 front. Here is why:
REAR: GM 14 BOLTS
1. GM 14 bolts is heavy duty. You'll see them on 3/4 -1 ton trucks.
2. 8 huge wheel lugs compare to six little tiny peanut size lug bolts found on 10 or 12 bolts.
3. GM 14 FF brake shoes and drums are huge. More breaking power. You can also convert the rear brakes into disc brakes later if you wish.
4. Since it is a full floaters, you can pull the axle off without pulling the wheel off.
5. Unlike 12 or 10 bolts diff, the weight of the vehicle doesn't rest on the axles, that is why they call it full floaters.
6. Cheap! You can get one from you local junk yard for less than $300 bucks.
FRONT: DANA 60
1. Way superior than Dana 44.
2. Stronger axles.
3. Massive brake rotors (huge 8 lugs). Again, more braking power.
4. Perfect for crossover steering or high steer project. Unlike Dana 44, you will have to look for a flat top knuckle if you wish to do a cross over steering, which by the way a must for GM trucks.
Some people say Dana 60 is expensive but if you add up the cost of doing a cross steering and beefing up your axle on a Dana 44, or converting your rotors from 6 to 8 lugs like the one found on 3/4 ton trucks, you will ended spending more or close to buying a used dana 60.
Save your money and hunt for a 60. Good luck!
