80 axel swap question

[bcolvin]

Hi,
I’m looking at some point to swap my front axel on my 60 for an 80 with coils. I’m in no hurry but I just came across a couple of decent looking axels from a 96 fj80. When I was reading up it looks like pre 4/94 are the preferred but the others can work with modifications to the hub and birfs.

Can anyone quickly explain the mods and why I could not run as is? Also could I just run the thirds on these for the 4.11 gear ratios? Just seeing if this are worth my while. Thanks a bunch

 

[Lead Head]

Unfortunately you can't just pop the third members in your axles. The FZJ80 uses a smaller front axle - 8" I believe. You also can't use the rear differential, because it's a full-floating differential and has no way to support the c-clips that hold your axle in.

You CAN use the FZJ80 rear differential in your front axle, oddly enough.

 

[bcolvin]

Unfortunately you can't just pop the third members in your axles. The FZJ80 uses a smaller front axle - 8" I believe. You also can't use the rear differential, because it's a full-floating differential and has no way to support the c-clips that hold your axle in.

You CAN use the FZJ80 rear differential in your front axle, oddly enough.

Thanks. I appreciate it

 

[cruisermatt]

you want the 91-94 version because you can put the Aisin locking hubs onto those birfields. Although you can always put 91-94 brifields into a 95-97 axle.
the 93-97 rotors and calipers are bigger then 91-92 so those are desirable (unless you want to stick with 15" wheels)

 

[bcolvin]

thanks! So the 93-94 are the sweet spot? I am assuming the locking hubs are made specifically for the 91-94 years too. Tha ks

 

[Broski]

At this point in life the axles and birdied need to be replaced anyway.
So just the axle housing thats available

 

[smorkington]

Just run terrain tamer parabolic leafs they ride nice enough. It would save you a lot of trouble unless you really want coils.

 

[bcolvin]

Just run terrain tamer parabolic leafs they ride nice enough. It would save you a lot of trouble unless you really want coils.

I think that’s going to be my move

 

[smorkington]

I think that’s going to be my move

Can’t go wrong with them. I’d recommend doing steering components while you’re in there 60s are always sloppy.

 

[Broski]

I think that’s going to be my move

I think you better do some research. If you want easy that a good move. If you what the best ride coils are the way.

 

[cruisermatt]

In my opinion the real benefits of the 80 front axle in a 60 are the additon of panhard bar (no more axle shifting left and right like with leafs), bigger brakes, and decreased turning radius / improved ackerman, as well as the lighter weight and way higher clearance front differential . The coils are just a extra bonus.