shortening a front axle

[TBAGRR]

I have a question on shortening a front Dana 44. I have a 69 800a and I have a freshly rebuilt Dana 44 in the back and I'm looking to change out my Dana 30 in the front. So my question is, is it worth it to shorten it to match my rear 44? I imagine it might be expensive since you would have to shorten the housing, axles, and tie rods. Has anyone done this and what do you think it would cost?

 

[paden5971]

I had a set of d44 narrowed for an 80. I had them done at a Scout place close to me in ia. They did the straight shaft axles instead of the tapered ones, they came off a Scout 2. I paid $2500 for the set with disc brakes front and rear and stainless lines.

 

[Chris Pucci]

I had a set of d44 narrowed for an 80. I had them done at a Scout place close to me in ia. They did the straight shaft axles instead of the tapered ones, they came off a Scout 2. I paid $2500 for the set with disc brakes front and rear and stainless lines.

That sounds about right to have the work done at a shop. It might be higher/lower in todays market.

If you are handy and have a welder or can take your axle to a welder you could do the front yourself for less. New inner axle shafts will be your largest expense.