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PROJECT BADLANDER: SFA Dana 44 and 4x4 Conversion

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48K views 170 replies 26 participants last post by  BADLANDER  
#1 · (Edited)
For several years now I have wanted to convert to 4x4 and install a solid axle. I am by no means an expert or have any real clue what I'm doing but I figured I had gotten to the point that I had a comprehensive understanding of the components and what all goes into this kind of project and I set out to source the parts I needed.

No, this is not a kit, I sourced parts from numerous sources and here we are.

This will not be a how to per say but I will be sufficient in that by following this build you will have a better understanding of what it takes to pull off a build such as this. All in I'll be under $2000. I will lay out the parts and costs later on. Granted only certain parts were bought new one can conceivably complete a build like this for near the same cost.

I will be creating a series of short vlogs that will accompany this thread and pictures herein. Feel free to ask questions and offer tips, tricks and insight as I go through this process.

Here is the link to the first video. From there you can find the rest of the vlogs in the series.
https://youtu.be/wd6aBlK9eR0
 
#8 ·
Re: SFA Dana 44 install and 4x4 Conversion

Thanks guys. So yeah the 4wd and 2wd sfa will essentially be the same but I'll have to add the transfer case and shift linkages.
So the axle is a full size from a early 70s k5 Blazer. I picked up the 44 and a 12 Bolt for $300. The 12 Bolt was 4.88s and had a lockrite locker already. So huge score there since a single axle shaft for the stock axle was $260 plus shipping
 
#10 ·
Re: SFA Dana 44 install and 4x4 Conversion

Thanks guys. So yeah the 4wd and 2wd sfa will essentially be the same but I'll have to add the transfer case and shift linkages.
So the axle is a full size from a early 70s k5 Blazer. I picked up the 44 and a 12 Bolt for $300. The 12 Bolt was 4.88s and had a lockrite locker already. So huge score there since a single axle shaft for the stock axle was $260 plus shipping

Hell ya 4:88 is a perfect score. And both axles for 300? That's a steal. Did you source both them from the blazer? Staying 6 lug I'm
Assuming.
 
#22 ·
To run that 241c all you need is a 97-99 Silverado trans to tcase adapter. I believe I paid $50 for mine. You can also use the Colorado trans mount. Just had to loosen it and slide it forward. Then splice the vss to your original wiring. It was really easy. Your trans xmember will have to be cut and rebuild cause it clocks down more than the our stock one.
 
#25 ·


Set the axle under there and got under the truck to take some measurements. Learned that my links need to come inboard a bit more. Prob will have to entirely fabricate a trans member. Gotta figure out how far the transfer case will hang down.

I'm glad that I went with a full size axle. At 69.5 wms it's only slightly wider than the z71.