Full Size Jeep Network

Hey there guys. I’m currently at a cross roads for my wagoneer. Last year I successfully transplanted a 6.5 diesel/nv4500/np241 into my 86 wagoneer. I put a 3” rough country lift and some worn 31’s. Axles are stock gearing 2.72’s and open diffs. The decision I am faced with is if I should swap my axles for 1 tons or rebuild, lock and re gear my 44’s for 33” tires. If I did the 1 tons I wouldn’t regear them as they are already 4.10, the rear is a 14bolt with a Detroit locker. Front is a Chevy king pin Dana 60. I have a np205 that I can put on the nv4500 for the right side drop axles. I have the axles due to buying a k30 for 600$ and I don’t really plan on using the truck as it is beat. I would run 35’s with the tons.

My goal for the waggy is a reliable adventure mobile. Not a wheeler.

Well, 1 ton axles for 33's is WAY overkill, although I see you note going to 35's. And with having 3" springs, you would end up with about 9" of total lift after swapping in the axles, as the D60 has to be used in spring over. You would then need to do a shackle flip kit in back to match the front. Then 33's look goofy, and you really need bigger tires (as you note). But then the small fender opens don't allow for bigger tires, so you end up having to cut.

Basically, its a ton of work in the long run to put in the bigger axles. But, if you really want them, put them in, but with stock springs. This will give you about 6" of lift, and then the 33's will work ok. Although you still need to trim some as the fender openings just won't fit a 33" tire.

You'll need to narrow them or run beeg flares. They might be too wide even for a Cherokee.

Hey sounds good ..1 have 1986 k30 dana front axle 60 in my 1982 Cherokee .

So sadly enough I’m still struggling with this. I have even bought a Detroit locker and a true trac and 4.10 gears and install kits for the axles. I have been trying to buy tires for Black Friday but can’t seem to decide if I wanna keep the stock ones and go 33’s or maybe do a 6” lift and get 35’s . I worry that the 33’s will be too small for my needs or look too wimpy for how modified everything else is.

Buy the 33's, regear what you have and drive it. If you choose to go with the axle conversion, you're basically starting from scratch and it sounds like you have a solid platform already. Factor in the downtime for all the fab work etc.. not to mention the multiutde of extra costs that WILL pop up. I say buy the exact tires you want in the 33 size with the money you're saving , install your lockers and get right back on the road. Just my 2 cents

Fleet Fox