Overview
The G2 JK CORE 44 high pinion front axle with a 5.38 ratio and ARB Air Locker is a complete front Dana 44 for 2007 and up Jeep Wrangler JK models. The 5.38 gearing suits a taller, lifted vehicle, and the axle carries extra caster for lifts of 6 inches and up.
The housing is built around an 8.8-inch JK 44 ring and pinion with a larger pinion shaft. G2 fits it with USA made 4340 Chromalloy 35 spline Placer axle shafts.
The housing is designed for heavy loads, including loads that can bend a stock Dana 30 or a Rubicon Dana 44. The 8.8-inch ring and pinion has a larger pinion shaft, and the Placer axle shafts are 1.5 inch, 35 spline. Heavy duty forged bearing caps, spanner nuts for backlash, and a heat-treated aluminum differential cover with cooling fins finish the carrier.
Key features
- 5.38 gear ratio with an ARB Air Locker
- Larger pinion shaft on the 8.8-inch JK 44 ring and pinion
- USA made 4340 Chromalloy, 1.5 inch, 35 spline Placer axle shafts
- Dana Spicer 5-7166X axle U-joints with a factory style flange pinion yoke
- Extra caster built in for 6 inch and up lifts
- Forged inner C-ends, skid plates and 1/4 inch laser cut brackets
- 3 inch diameter, 5/16 inch DOM tubes with reinforcing ribs
Lift height and driveline
A taller lift changes the angles in the steering and driveline, and a front axle with extra caster is built with that in mind. Caster affects how the wheels return to center and how the vehicle tracks at speed. After the swap, check the steering geometry and the track bar fit, since a change in ride height often means these need adjusting.
Driveline angles deserve attention too. A higher axle changes the pinion angle relative to the transfer case, which can cause vibration if left unchecked. Measuring the angles after the installation and correcting them with the right parts keeps the driveline smooth. A high pinion design also requires care when setting the new ring and pinion.
- Steering geometry after the lift
- Track bar fit and adjustment
- Pinion angle and driveline vibration check
Specifications
| Brand | G2 Axle and Gear |
|---|---|
| Part number | C4JMFL538AP5 |
| UPC | 631410120493 |
| Position | Front |
| Housing | 8.8-inch JK 44, high pinion |
| Gear ratio | 5.38 |
| Locker | ARB Air Locker |
| 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
This front axle is made for 2007 and up Jeep Wrangler JK models, which covers the 2007-2018 model years.
It is a front axle only and is not made for the Wrangler JL or the Gladiator JT. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Plan for alignment and driveline angle checks after the swap. The extra caster is built for lifts of 6 inches and up.
What’s included
The assembly includes the ARB Air Locker, the 35 spline Placer axle shafts and the Dana Spicer 5-7166X U-joints.
