Overview
The G2 Axle and Gear 4-JKRUB-538M is a 5.38 ratio front and rear ring and pinion set with minor installation kits for the 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, built around Dana 44 axles at both ends. G2 says these complete kits include everything needed for a gear swap, meaning the front and rear gear sets plus the minor installation kits for both axles.
G2 says its performance ring and pinion sets are engineered for demanding applications such as oversized tires and high performance engines. This kit puts both axles’ gears and install parts into a single part number.
Key features
- 5.38 ratio gear sets for the front and rear axles
- Dana 44 front and rear, per the title
- Minor installation kit included for each axle
- Labeled for the Jeep Wrangler JK
- Designed by G2 for oversized tires and high performance engines
Planning a gear swap
A ring and pinion set changes the final drive ratio at each axle, so both differentials need to be matched to the same ratio for the vehicle to drive predictably. Before starting, clean the carrier housings and inspect the pinion bearings and races, since a minor kit reuses them. Worn bearings can allow pinion movement that causes noise and early gear wear, so replacing them at the same time is common practice.
Gear contact pattern is checked with marking compound after setup. Pinion depth, preload and backlash interact, so adjusting one usually changes the others. Work through each axle in order and recheck the setup after the first short drive.
- Mark each gear set and its install parts so front and rear stay separate
- Replace pinion seals where the design calls for them
- Check the fluid level in both differentials after the first drive
Specifications
| Brand | G2 Axle and Gear |
|---|---|
| Part number | 4-JKRUB-538M |
| UPC | 631410141160 |
| Product type | Front and rear ring and pinion sets with minor installation kits |
| Gear ratio | 5.38 |
| Axle manufacturer | Dana |
| Axle location | Front and rear |
| Axle sizes | Dana 44 front and Dana 44 rear |
| Kit class | Minor kit |
Vehicle fitment
The 4-JKRUB-538M is built for the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, the generation identified by its chassis code in the product name.
The 4-JKRUB-538M does not cover the TJ, LJ or JL Wrangler, or any other Jeep model. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim, and that both axles are Dana 44, before ordering.
Installation notes
Changing gears on both axles of a JK means setting pinion depth, preload and backlash twice, once per differential, with the parts in the two minor installation kits. A minor kit assumes the existing bearings are reused. Professional setup is the usual route for a full-axle gear swap, and fresh gear oil goes into both differentials once the work is done.
What’s included
- Front ring and pinion gear set
- Rear ring and pinion gear set
- Minor installation kit for the front axle
- Minor installation kit for the rear axle
Not included: bearings; a minor kit does not supply them.
