Another stupid d30/d44 question

[Ict57]

I have a complete d44 setup from a 72 and a 66 truck that needs the front end redone (bearings brakes etc). Plan to swap disc brakes. Since both front ends need the same work, I planned to swap to d44. On this truck I don't much care about originality. Building a low-buck (ish) driver that'll see some abuse. It'll likely end up with efi to keep it more drivable in KS weather.

So the question, it seems the radius arms etc are the same, just different housings. Am I correct?? Will swapping end up with many other cans o worms? And yes I have the d44 driveshaft as I recall (?) they're different lengths.

Any gotchas? Or just remove and replace?

Ps--debating 2" lift but it may be stock suspension, uncut.

 

[SHX669]

Should just swap over.

 

[DirtDonk]

If you can get a trackbar from a 44, that will have a slightly larger bend in it to clear the larger diff cover. You can use the one from the 30 (many do) and get away with it, but they usually leave a mark on the front cover as they pass by.
Obviously it's something to keep an eye on though, as every swap, like every Bronco, has the potential to be the 1-in-100 that nothing works like us folk on the internet said it would!

Just for clarification though, are both of these Broncos? Or are both full-size trucks? Or one of each?

Paul

 

[Ict57]

Thanks Paul. Yes it's early bronco to early bronco. Everything I see shows it's a simple swap just wanted to confirm before I start making messes.

 

[Bajabrewer]

Don't forget to make sure the ratio on the one you use is the right one to match the rear gear.

 

[Biohazard]

Should swap right over. I've done it myself but I did a bit of custom stuff too so it's possible I missed something. Fairly certain they mount and hook up about the same.

 

[figo40]

Yes, I've done it and they do. Oh, and my gear ratio's don't match, check first!

 

[1strodeo]

For what its worth, or for someone searching this thread in the future, here is a pic of the two hubs next to each other (Dana 30 is the one still stubbornly attached to the wheel)...seals look a little different, but housings are the same size so i should be able to switch seals if needed...will know soon