Is a TJ Dana 30 alright for a van?

Not exactly a TJ, but TJ parts. I know a Dana 44 is the better choice, but can't find one under $2000... a Dana 30 can be had for like 100 bucks soooooo....

I've just picked up a GMC Safari Van. The damn thing is going to be a 4x4 camper. Keeping the trails mild, think fire roads and such. I'd greatly prefer a dana 44 by a long shot but the damn things are RARE around here and thus EXPENSIVE. The other commonly available options are Ford Excursion dana 50s and TJ dana 30s. Maaaybe an XJ HP 30 on occasion.

I'm really reluctant to go with the 50 route as I'm only wanting to run a 31" tire. a 33 is just outlandishly large for the van and would need a wheelbase stretch on the front and to basically tub the rear. Not really against it but also don't need it. being as a Dana 30 and a 8.8 can be had really easy in the ratios I'd need, I'm leaning that way. I know the 30 can be a bit easy to bend. A truss helps with that. The van in stock form is around 4,000 pounds though, so not sure its too heavy. It will likely be around 5,000 when I'm done converting it. The 8.8 in the rear would take most of the weight. I'm only running a 4.3 V6 and 2.72:1 low in the t-case behind a 4l60.

So, thoughts on the Dana 30 under a van? Terrible Idea like my gut says it is, or is it just fine like it looks like on paper?

WV Native said:

What’s the track width of a safari van?

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well funny that you mention that. I found numbers online (before I had the van) that said 58" WMS to WMS.

I also have a tape, and measured about 68" WMS to WMS.


Sooooo looks like I'm finding different options. Dana 30 is not gonna cut the mustard. Damn. Might be tubbing this thing. Ain't no way I'm putting that much axle under it with a 31" tire.

Rickyd said:

Leaf spring Dana 44?

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Thats what I want. I've been looking for one for a few weeks now. Passenger drop is available all day long but there are clearance issues on that side. Replacing the transfer case so thats no biggie, but the crossmember issues are a pain.

WV Native said:

I had a feeling it was a bit wider. I assume you’re wanting coils and links??

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Leafs on all 4 corners. Going to make it simple and rugged. links would be better in every way, except complexity and cost. This is a super bargain budget build. It'll be a cool build and done right, and done well, just very cheaply.

macleanflood said:

I'd go the Dana 50 route....That extra inch would cut down on larger tire scrub.


-Mac

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I may end up going that route just because I can get the axles for cheap. But also the scrub radius being correct would be a killer bonus. I'd like to keep it driving well enough i can take it cross country. No point in a go-places-van that can't go places.

WV Native said:

Is this your first solid axle swap?

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2nd one if you only count going from IFS to solid axle. I've done surprisingly few of those.
If you count axle swaps with new suspension into stuff with factory solid axles.....At least 5 or 6 of those. Some with 4-links, some with leafs. Everything from a Dana 60 under a ramcharger, or triangulated 4 links in a C10.
More if you count the TTB builds and the sandrails...
Like I said, links are better in every way except cost and complexity. This is a quick and dirty build, I can SAS it with leafs in like 2 days. Easy.

Pulled the trigger on some axles today, and got the D50 and Dana 70 from a 2001 Superduty. I need to validate its a 50 and not a 60 (no way i could be that lucky) but it should do what I need it to. Now I just need to decide on 33s or 35s, and just how much cutting I'm wanting to mess with.