I have a rear D44 i bought awhile ago for my XJ. I've come to the conclusion this isnt going to be a fast build as time and money is tight. I decided along with this D44 rear why not go with a D44 front. So i have done some research and reached a dilemma.
I could use a Rubicon 44 out of a Rubicon TJ which has a 44 center section but the tubes , ball joints, and steering knuckles are D30 which leads to switching to low pinion with out gaining much strength. Only bright side here is the factory selectable locker included with all Rubicons.
The other choice is a D44 from an 80 or newer Wagoneer or Grand Wagoneer. This axle is 61.5 inches WMS to WMS. So its only 1" wider the the stock XJ. However this axle is also low pinion so i guess with the strength gain you loss ground clearance from my understanding. Also this axle is leaf sprung so it will have to have new coil spring buckets added.
I still need to measure the D44 i have to see what my width will be in the rear but i know it isnt a full width axle. with out going full width is the any other D44's that are close to the stock width and are HP instead of LP.
Thanx in advance guys.

 

there is, but your going to spend a couple $1000 getting it. dont get the TJ 44 because like you said, its not a "real" 44. your best bet would be to get either the waggy 44 or if you really want a HP get a HP 44 with the wedges welded on from a Ford. you will have to narrow that though

 

so without getting a full width and cutting it down or a custom built like a currie switching the leaf sprung wagoneer over is my best bet.
Thanx

 

yes. Ballistic Fab makes a pretty sweet coil bucket/shock mount/control arm mount combo bracket for cheap too. then you would have to do something for the upper mounts and tracbar mount and your set.