Overview
Jeep JKU Rubicon Dana 44 axles swapped in with 5.38 gears and OX Lockers for superior strength and traction. RCV Axle Shafts for durability on the trail.
Tools Needed
- • Axle puller or slide hammer
- • Gear setup tools (bearing puller, dial indicator)
- • Torque wrench
- • Jack and stands
- • Socket set and wrenches
- • Pry bars
Materials Used
Estimated Time
Approximately 8-12 hours (including regear and locker install).
Installation Steps
Remove Old Axles and Carrier
Jack up the vehicle, drain differentials, remove old axles, third member if needed, and carrier bearings.
Install New JKU Rubicon Axles
Swap in the stronger Dana 44 axles from JKU Rubicon. Ensure proper fitment and seals.
Regear to 5.38
Install Yukon 5.38 ring and pinion sets in both axles. Set backlash and pinion depth per specs.
Install OX Lockers and RCV Shafts
Fit OX Lockers into the carriers. Install RCV heavy-duty axle shafts for increased strength.
Reassemble, Fill, and Test
Reinstall third members, fill with gear oil, bleed brakes if needed, and test drive with locker engagement checks.
Results
Stronger JKU Rubicon axles with 5.38 gears for better crawling, OX Lockers for on-demand traction, and RCV shafts for bombproof durability.
Look for the axles card in the Repairs & Mods grid or the CLICK TO INSPECT buttons.