Tools needed for Dana 44 axle work.

[NorthGaAire]

Hello,

What special tools will I need to replace the inner axle bearings, u-joints, and ball joints on my 78 Cherokee with Dana 44 front axle? I plan to remove the axle from the vehicle since I am also replacing the RH steering knuckle for the crossover steering kit for the SOA upgrade.

Thanks,
NorthGaAire

[Dr. Marneaus]

you'll need one o' them 4x4 spindle nut sockets.

[Stuka]

You will need a ball joint socket as well.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/otc- ... IhEALw_wcB

Spindle nut socket:

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/wmr- ... oqEALw_wcB

[will e]

And a little pic to get the hidden circle piece thing out of the hub.

[derf]

The nuts on the ball joint run over 1". I think they're 1-1/8" and 1-5/16" but don't quote me on that. A crescent wrench really isn't the best way to handle those. Especially if you're going to torque to spec. Having sockets and box-end wrenches of the appropriate size makes a big difference.

If you're going to change out the inner spindle bearing, a pilot bearing puller is a useful tool to get. I bought this one from NAPA years ago and it's great for pilot bearings/bushings, as well as the inner spindle bearing. https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/BK_7002476

Here's a shot of a similar tool pulling a similar inner spindle bearing:

120-2045_IMG.jpg

[derf]

I also did a write up of the teardown and reassembly of the hubs. I stopped short of taking the spindle off but there's a few tricks in there to walk you through the process: http://www.grimmjeeper.com/TruckNorris/rotor.html

[tgreese]

The nuts on the ball joint run over 1". I think they're 1-1/8" and 1-5/16" but don't quote me on that. A crescent wrench really isn't the best way to handle those. Especially if you're going to torque to spec. Having sockets and box-end wrenches of the appropriate size makes a big difference.

If you're going to change out the inner spindle bearing, a pilot bearing puller is a useful tool to get. I bought this one from NAPA years ago and it's great for pilot bearings/bushings, as well as the inner spindle bearing. https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/BK_7002476

Here's a shot of a similar tool pulling a similar inner spindle bearing:



120-2045_IMG.jpg

Excellent. Another use for my pilot bearing puller that I thought I'd never use again!

[derf]

Excellent. Another use for my pilot bearing puller that I thought I'd never use again!

I've used mine on 4 occasions. Once for an actual pilot bearing. Three times rebuilding D44 spindles.

[NorthGaAire]

Thank you!!!.....

Carry on...