Has anyone put disks on a Dana 35? Is this worthwhile or should I just swap to an Exploder 8.8?

I'd say just swap in a Ford 8.8. Erik (Nailer) has done this in in his YJ, maybe he'll chime in. Doing the swap on a YJ is fairly easy. I think all that needs to be changed is the spring perches, e-brake cables, and maybe the prop valve for the brakes. Good luck

Originally posted by Dukes69
I'd say just swap in a Ford 8.8. Erik (Nailer) has done this in in his YJ, maybe he'll chime in. Doing the swap on a YJ is fairly easy. I think all that needs to be changed is the spring perches, e-brake cables, and maybe the prop valve for the brakes. Good luck

Just a thought for now! I just did a brake job on my YJ yesterday and was wondering aloud how nice it would be to have disks.

:D

Any thoughts/comments/suggestions, Eric?

I know how nice it is. I just swaped in a Dana 44 with Discs in my TJ and the difference is amazing!! Stops hard and fast with great pedal feel. I can't even imagine ever using drum brakes again. Not to mention how much of a pain in the ass they are to re-shoe. :D Let us know. :8

Here is a link to the disc conversion I did on my D44 axle. I also did the full floater conversion at the same time. I still need to install a power booster. 4 wheel manual disc brakes is not fun on a hill.

Note also that you really need to change the MC to a Disc/Disc unit. Mine is from a 68 Corvette and was a direct bolt up. I had to make the pushrod for it, but you can buy an adjustable one also. This MC will also accept an aftermarket booster.

http://bulldogs-house.com/pics/44%20axle/Full%20Float%20Install/

There is a .doc file that has a listing of what all the pics are (for easier reference)

Originally posted by BullDog
Here is a link to the disc conversion I did on my D44 axle.

Thanks, good pics! :D

it is REALLY a bolt-on conversion.. if you have 4" of suspension lift or more, you dont even have to change the perches. if you have the tools it couldnt hurt though.. just move each of them 1/2" outward.
buy a spicer adapter to adapt to your existing driveshaft.
buy a pair of shock mounts, or make some to mount your shocks to the axle.
just make sure the rear end you buy is COMPLETE! you can even utilize the ford e-brake cables. they will attatch to your yj e-brake connection with very little work.
DO THIS MOD! it is really easy :)
for the brakes, just remove a small rubber o ring in the proportioning valve, and you are stopping like crazy :)
let me know if you have more questions....
you can also get these 8.8's with factory 4:10 gears if that is what you have. :wave:

Thanks Eric, I was hoping to hear from you on this. Unfortunately, with my X-case problem right now, this mod is going to have to wait.

:(

But believe me, WHEN I do decide to do this mod, I will be contacting you <Eric> to pick your brain! :D