Rear axle upgrade?
 

New guy here, starting a new build. Have a 96 Hardbody 2wd. Was wondering what rear axle upgrade is the most popular? I see folks have done the Dana 44, has anyone done a Ford 8.8” Explorer swap? Strong axle and disc brakes all in one. I’ve read the rear axle in the Hardbody is 59” wide and the Explorer 8.8” is 59.75”. Thoughts?

Planning to do an engine swap too? To what?

Axle swaps are not real common around here. Some of the pathfinders had rear disk. I think the izuzu axles (Rodeo??) Are a little 44 that fits.



The OEM axle is way stronger than people expect. The H233 is a monster. 233mm ring gear. A guy that was on here had a supercharged D21 V6 on 37" tires with a H233 in the rear. Kept blowing out the front wagoneer axles. The rear never had any issues. The Flaming Marshmallow has a PS4. I think he still has a stock 4cyl rear axle from the late 80s. I'm running a mild VG33, so is JP, on stock H233 axles.

Thanks, that’s really kinda what I needed to know. I built a 68 Bronco from the ground up, but I really don’t know anything about these trucks other than they are sturdy and a good project truck. Is there a rear disc brake conversion kit? I HATE working on drum brakes… lol. I’ll have to check what axle I have. Is it stamped somewhere? Or did all that year come with the same?

Was thinking of either the small 240sx turbo kit or swap to the V6. I’d be happy with 275/300 HP.

Honda Passport/Isuzu Rodeo rear ends should swap over pretty easy. I havent done it myself, but have read several places, that it is a direct bolt on. The break lines may or may not need some modification.

Being that you're a 2wd, IMO it would be easier to find a D44 from a Rodeo with the gear ratio you want than finding a 2wd V6 HB with a H233 axle.

H233b axles with discs (pathys only) can be found but the ratio is going to be 4.1, 4.3, or 4.6:1 usually the 4.3:1.

As far as the disc swap, it is really simple, hooking up the parking brake may require some fabrication though.

www.nissannut.com will cover the swap.

I have a 2wd V6 HG37 H233b but I’m in alabama.

Thanks anyway Brother!! :thumb:

What are you trying to do?

In stock form, there is no reason to upgrade the rear axle, as it is strong enough.

If you want disc brakes...put in a Nissan Axle. IMHO, drums work just fine in the rear.