Overview
The G2 JK CORE 44 high pinion front axle with a 4.88 ratio and an Auburn Ected differential is a complete front Dana 44 for 2007 and up Jeep Wrangler JK models. It suits a Wrangler JK that has been lifted 6 inches or more, since the housing carries extra caster.
The housing handles loads that would bend a stock Dana 30 or a Rubicon Dana 44. Its 8.8-inch Dana 44 gearing has a larger pinion shaft and runs 35 spline Placer axle shafts.
Auburn Ected is the differential named in the title, and it pairs with the 4.88 gearing in this housing. G2 builds the housing with 3 inch diameter, 5/16 inch DOM tubes, 1/4 inch laser cut brackets, massive forged inner C-ends, and reinforcing ribs.
Heavy duty forged bearing caps and spanner nuts set up the carrier, and the Dana Spicer 5-7166X U-joints are heavy duty. The housing uses metric Rubicon style carrier bearings.
Key features
- 4.88 gear ratio with an Auburn Ected differential
- Larger pinion shaft on the 8.8-inch JK 44 ring and pinion
- Placer axle shafts, USA made, 1.5 inch, 35 spline
- Dana Spicer 5-7166X U-joints and a factory style flange pinion yoke
- Built-in extra caster, 3 degrees, for 6 inch and up lifts
- Heavy-duty forged bearing caps and spanner nuts for backlash adjustment
- Heat-treated aluminum differential cover with cooling fins
Before you install
Lifting a Wrangler changes the driveline angles and caster the axle sees, so the front housing is only part of the job. Before the swap, plan for the driveshaft, the track bar and the steering geometry, since those are often adjusted in the same session. A front axle with extra caster helps keep steering stable at higher ride heights, but the knuckles and ball joints should be checked for wear first.
Trail use puts the most stress on the pinion seal, the carrier bearings and the axle U-joints. Wipe the cover and look for seepage after each outing, and keep fluid at the correct level. Check the cover bolts and axle shaft retention after the first few runs on rough ground, since loose hardware is a common early problem after a big install.
- Driveshaft angles after the lift is set
- Track bar and tie rod ends checked for wear
- Pinion seal and U-joints inspected after trail use
- Fluid level and cover bolts checked regularly
Specifications
| Brand | G2 Axle and Gear |
|---|---|
| Part number | C4JMFL488MP5 |
| UPC | 631410120462 |
| Position | Front |
| Housing | 8.8-inch JK 44, high pinion |
| Gear ratio | 4.88 |
| Differential | Auburn Ected |
| Axle shafts | 1.5 inch, 35 spline Placer |
| Caster | 3 degrees extra for lifts of 6 inches and up |
| Wheel ends | Reuse factory ends |
Vehicle fitment
It is a front axle for 2007 and up Jeep Wrangler JK models, covering the 2007-2018 model years. It is not made for the rear JK position, the Wrangler JL or the Gladiator JT.
It is not made for the rear JK position, the Wrangler JL or the Gladiator JT. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Check alignment and driveline angles once the axle is in, and set the caster against your lift height.
What’s included
The axle includes the Auburn Ected differential and 35 spline Placer axle shafts.
