Overview
The Poison Spyder Customs Bombshell is a Dana 44 differential cover (part 42-11-044) cast from ductile nodular iron with a bare steel finish. It is meant to protect the gears, lockers and cover bolts from rocks and trail hazards, and its axle information lists front and rear Dana 44 axles with universal fit.
Stock covers are usually thin stamped sheet metal, and a moderate rock tap can cave one in against the ring gear, damaging the gears, locker and carrier bearings. A more common problem is peel back, where the lip of the cover lifts on a rock and lets gear oil drain. The Bombshell is designed to resist both.
The cover uses a ramp profile that helps a vehicle slide up and over the worst rocks. The area around the bolt ring is up to 1 inch thick where rock contact is most likely, and the rest of the cross-section runs from 7/16 inch to 1/2 inch at the outer surface. Recesses around the bolt heads keep them away from trail damage.
The cover is cast from the same ductile iron used in drag racing differential housings and is designed to hold up under heavy loads.
Key features
- Ductile nodular iron casting
- Recessed bolt heads that guard the cover bolts
- Ramp profile for sliding over rocks
- Bolt-ring section up to 1 inch thick
- Outer surface 7/16 inch to 1/2 inch thick
Protecting the gears on the trail
A differential cover is one of the lowest points on a trail vehicle, so it sees rocks, ledges and stumps that the rest of the drivetrain does not. Damage to the cover usually shows up as a dent near the bolt ring, a bent lip, or fresh oil seepage at the seal. Inspect the cover after rough trail days, and look at the ring gear area through the housing if the cover has been struck hard.
Covers and skid plates work together. A cover that resists dents protects the gears from direct hits, while a skid plate spreads the load from ledges across a wider area. When choosing protection for the axle, consider the axle type, the ground clearance you run, and how often the vehicle tackles steep, rocky terrain.
Bolts and seals are often replaced together with a cover, because a damaged lip can leave the gasket surface uneven. Clean the mating surfaces thoroughly and use the sealant or gasket style recommended for the axle.
- Inspect the bolt ring after rock strikes
- Watch for seepage at the seal
- Replace bolts and seals with a damaged cover
Specifications
| Brand | Poison Spyder Customs |
|---|---|
| Part number | 42-11-044 |
| UPC | 614901733235 |
| Axle type | Dana 44 |
| Axle location | Front and rear |
| Material | Cast ductile nodular iron |
| Finish | Bare steel |
| Thickness | 7/16 to 1/2 inch at outer surface; up to 1 inch at bolt ring |
| Oil capacity | Extra capacity |
| Fitment | Universal fit (as listed) |
Vehicle fitment
It is made for Dana 44 front and rear axles. Check it against your housing before installing, and confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
What’s included
The Bombshell differential cover, cast from ductile nodular iron with a bare steel finish.
