stock FJ40 fine pline vs Dana 44? Which is stronger?

[oldracerguy]

I have a 1978 FJ40 with the stock front and rear diffs, axles, etc. Are these as tough as a Dana 44 that comes in a Jeep Rubicon? Can I run 35's and not feel like I am at risk all the time? I am running them open at this time but will put lockers in soon. Any facts or strong opinions out there?

 

[Poser]

You can run 35” tires on anything.

The stock 1978 front axle is comparable in strength to the Dana 44.

If you want to not have to ever worry about your front axle shafts again with 35” tall tires, I would look at installing a set of 30 spline Longfields and chromo lockout gears.

 

[Tapage]

D44 out from a Rubi are only the 3rd member .. and IMOP yes the Cruiser stuff are much more stronger .. but with lockers and a good engine on front I would definitely add a Longfields for front ..

 

[mookie]

my friends with D44's break their chit all the freaking time with smaller tires than me