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This is what I've learned. Much of it from the D44 parts list thread.
Early versions of the housing have axle flange ends that are flush. That is, they have no shoulder to register the caliper mount. They were, I believe, designed to work with the Delco iron calipers.
This is an early version axle end. The order of parts assembly on the axle is different between new (PBR caliper) and older (Delco caliper) versions.
Later versions have a pronounced lip on the axle flange so that the caliper mount fits around it. Then the axle assembly (with retaining plate, seal, bearing and lock ring) is installed. I have no picture of this one although this later version is what I have.
Part numbers for the axles are different left and right. I also think (but would have to confirm) that the axles themselves between new and old versions are also different.
this is the flange end and came with the delco backing plates so looks like it’s the earlier style
Exactly what I was talking about. I have the bottom picture posted. The bearings, seals, lock rings and retaining plates may not be interchangeable as the order on which they're installed on the axle is different. The old version has the backing plate/caliper mount placed onto the axle first. Then the bearings, bits and pieces. Later versions place the caliper mount on the axle flange. The axle itself is assembled separately and then installed.
As for axle lengths, that's a tough one. It may be posted here somewhere as I was in conversation with at least one member who was trying to get the same answer. That said, I do have the original engineered paper drawings from Dana/Spicer for one version of the axle. (Not sure which as it's been a while since I've pulled them out of the file cabinet). If I can get them scanned at work (they're old school 24" x 36" format) and convert them to a PDF, I'll post it here.
If you dig through the Dana parts list thread, you may find the answer in there.
FWIW, the rumor is that Moser has made copies of these axles and it may be they have that info.
I pulled the old drawings out and looking them over, there's no indication of the axle lengths themselves. Plenty of everything else like flange to flange dimensions but most of what's on the drawings are part numbers.
Date on these drawings is 1991-1993 so it's all later versions.
My parts are from early type D44 going off pictures and I had iron delco calipers. Let me know if you are interested in axle and internal parts and I will dig them up and get some pictures.
firebirddude, not wanting to hijack your thread at all, but if you come across a complete dana44 third gen and pass on it plz let me know, i am looking for one as well.
firebirddude, not wanting to hijack your thread at all, but if you come across a complete dana44 third gen and pass on it plz let me know, i am looking for one as well.
