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Alloy USA Dana 44 Chromoly Front Axle Kit – 12174

Alloy USA

  • Dana 44 front axle kit with 4340 chromoly shafts
  • Heat-treated twice and designed to be up to 40% stronger
  • Fits 1980–1990 Jeep Wagoneer (SJ) and 1984–1991 Grand Wagoneer (SJ)
  • 30 splines and no differential included

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Description

Overview

The Alloy USA 12174 is a Dana 44 front axle kit made from 4340 chromoly, for the 1980–1990 Jeep Wagoneer (SJ) and the 1984–1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer (SJ).

The axles are heat-treated twice and designed to be up to 40% stronger. The kit has 30 splines and no differential is included. The axle shafts carry a 10-year warranty, and the U-joints carry a 3-year warranty.

Key features

  • 4340 chromoly construction
  • Heat-treated twice for strength
  • Dana 44 front axle type
  • 30 spline axle

Dana 44 front end basics

The Dana 44 is a heavier front axle than the Dana 30, with larger shafts and gears that suit a full-size SJ body. Its strength makes it a common choice for trucks and Wagoneers that carry load or run larger tires. Gearing and tire size also change how the axle feels off road. Before installation, check the axle’s ratio, brake setup and steering geometry, since these must work together.

Front axle work often reveals worn ball joints, tie rod ends and wheel bearings. Replacing these during the swap reduces the chance of a second job. Inspect the U-joints and differential seals regularly, and listen for clicks on tight turns, which often point to a joint that needs attention. Keep axle fluid clean and check for leaks after the first few drives.

Specifications

Brand Alloy USA
Part number 12174
Axle maker Dana
Axle location Front
Position Front
Axle type Dana 44
Axle spline 30 splines
Differential None included
Material 4340 chromoly
Warranty 10 years on axle shafts, 3 years on U-joints

Vehicle fitment

The kit fits the 1984–1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer (SJ) in Base and Limited trim, and the 1980–1990 Jeep Wagoneer (SJ) in Base, Brougham and Limited trim.

The list does not include any other model.

Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.

What’s included

The Dana 44 front axle kit with 30 splines. The bullets say no differential is included.

Not included: A differential.

Fitment

VehicleYearsTrims
Jeep Grand Wagoneer (SJ)1984–1991Base, Limited
Jeep Wagoneer (SJ)1980–1990Base, Brougham, Limited

Use “Select your vehicle” at the top of the page to check this part against your vehicle.

Questions & Answers

Does the Alloy USA 12174 fit a 1985 Jeep Wagoneer?

Yes. It fits the 1980–1990 Jeep Wagoneer (SJ) in Base, Brougham and Limited trim, which covers 1985. The Grand Wagoneer models are a separate set of years and trims, so confirm your trim before ordering.

Does the Dana 44 kit come with a differential?

No. The bullets say the kit includes no differential, so one must come from elsewhere. The kit is a Dana 44 front axle with 30 splines and 4340 chromoly shafts.

What is the spline count?

The kit has 30 splines. The shafts are 4340 chromoly, heat-treated twice and designed to be up to 40% stronger than stock.

Should I replace the ball joints when installing a Dana 44 axle?

Often yes. Ball joints and tie rod ends wear over time, and replacing them during the axle job reduces the chance of a second tear-down. Check their play by hand before reassembly, and replace any joint that feels loose.

How do I keep a Dana 44 axle in good shape?

Check the fluid level and look for leaks at the seals every few oil changes. Inspect the U-joints for play, and clean the axle after off-road use to spot cracks or bent parts early.