I am currently in highschool and have a 99 2wd with a dana 35, I want to upgrade the xj in some way to make it more capable but I don't want to make an upgrade that is practically pointless or will break on me instantly. A 4wd swap is out of the question because i lack experience, time, tools, space to do the swap etc. i have heard that the dana 35 is a weak axle and that its not worth putting a locker in but i don't see myself ever running tires larger than 235/75/15 as I like the stock look and I do have to daily this thing. I also work a good amount of hours every week and i am fortunate enough to be able to keep my entire pay check so buying something more fancy like an air locker is a possibility. I've thought about doing an axle swap in the rear as its slightly more feasible for me but it would still be a challenge. anyway sorry for the ramble; i am just looking for advice, recommendations, experiences, from people with more of those said experiences than me.

thanks,

 

Get a Chrysler 8.25 out of another XJ and put a Spartan locker in it.

 

This, An axle swap is easy, Just make sure to get the drive shaft along with the axle from the donor jeep as they are different lengths.

 

And use the 97+ axle. It has bigger axle shafts since you are thinking of locking it

 

okay, thank you all for the advice.

 

thanks. my only hesitation is running a fully mechanical on a DD being a pain in the rear, is that a legit concern or will i not notice it?

 

If you dont have to endure snowy roads then you would be just fine with the mechanical locker (I run yukon grizzly lockers in just about everything I have). Full mechanical locker on snowy roads can be very challenging. Wet roads too if your tires are already low on tread.

 

No it's not a problem at all, had mine like that for 6 years, does much better in the snow as well.

 

People from Michigan can't drive very well so this is probably true for you.

 

I'd like to think its because of the Iroks mainly but you tend to know what your talking about so i'll let that one go

 

I bought some, but haven't put them on yet. Tell me about your experience with them

 

Iroks on low psi might as well be sled tracks for deep/wet snow. They don't like the snow and especially not any ice at a street driven pressure but everywhere else I've got nothing but great things to say about them.

I've had 3 sets of 36's, a set of 37s, a set of 39.5 bias and a set of 39.5 stickies. Great wheeling tires, kinda expensive for a primarily road driven rig though.

They get dogged on for thin sidewalls but this also makes them fairly light compared to others. Not big power robbers while proving aggressive traction.

If you buy yourself a set of sticky Iroks prepare to toss a box of tissues at the LS swap guys because they will watch in disgust as you walk up a rock line they can't overpower their way through

 

Thanks for the info.