Crane Axle Dana 44 Differential Cover - Chromoly Steel
CAD44C
The Crane Axle Dana 44 Chromoly Differential Cover is built to protect Dana 44 gears, lockers, bearings, and differential components from direct rock impacts and hard off-road use. Cast in the USA from high-strength 8620 chromoly steel and fully machined for accurate sealing, this cover combines serious impact resistance with a low-profile, lipless design that helps the axle slide over obstacles instead of catching on them.
Recessed bolt lands help shield the included Grade 8 hardware from damage, while the unfinished steel surface allows the cover to be painted or powder coated to match the build. This cover is intended for Dana 44 front and rear axle applications, but axle swaps and model-year variations are common, so the differential housing should always be verified before ordering.
Includes:
- (1) Crane Axle Dana 44 Chromoly Differential Cover
- (1) Grade 8 12-Point Hardware Kit
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Crane Axle |
| Product Type | Differential Cover |
| Axle Compatibility | Dana 44 |
| Position | Front or Rear |
| Material | USA-Cast 8620 Chromoly Steel |
| Finish | Unfinished Steel |
| Design | Low-Profile, Lipless Cover |
| Bolt Protection | Recessed Bolt Lands |
| Manufacturing | Cast and Fully Machined |
| Hardware | Grade 8 12-Point Hardware Included |
| Country of Origin | Made in the USA |
Fitment
| Make | Model / Application | Year Range | Axle Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet / GMC | K5, K10, K20, K30 and Related 4x4 Applications | 1972–1977 | Front |
| Dodge | Ramcharger, W-Series, 150/1500 and Light-Duty 2500 | 1972–2001 | Front |
| Ford | F-100, F-150, Light-Duty F-250 and Bronco | 1959–1996 | Front |
| International Harvester | Scout II, Travelall and Selected 4x4 Trucks | 1969–1980 | Front or Rear |
| Jeep | CJ, Jeepster Commando, Wagoneer, SJ, TJ, LJ, JK, XJ, MJ and Selected Grand Cherokee Applications | 1948–2015 | Front or Rear |
| Isuzu / Honda | Rodeo / Passport | 1993–2004 | Rear |
| Mitsubishi | Montero / Pajero Venezuelan Dakar Models | 2000–2010 | Rear |
Fitment Notes:
- Fits standard Dana 44 differential cover bolt patterns.
- Can be used on Dana 44 front or rear axle housings where the cover pattern matches.
- Vehicle year, make, and model do not guarantee axle fitment because many vehicles were available with multiple axle options.
- Axle swaps are common on older Jeeps, trucks, and custom off-road vehicles; verify the actual housing before ordering.
- Confirm the cover bolt count, housing shape, and differential identification before installation.
- Some listed applications used Dana 44 axles only in specific trims, tow packages, Rubicon models, or regional configurations.
- The unfinished steel cover should be painted, coated, or otherwise protected from corrosion before long-term use.
- Inspect housing threads and sealing surfaces before installation.
- Differential fluid, gasket, and sealant are not listed as included.
FAQ
How do I know whether my axle is a Dana 44?
Identify the axle by checking the differential cover shape, bolt pattern, casting marks, axle tag, and housing design. Do not rely only on vehicle year and model because many vehicles were offered with more than one axle and may have been modified or axle-swapped.
Will this cover fit both front and rear Dana 44 axles?
Yes, it can fit Dana 44 front or rear housings that use the standard Dana 44 cover pattern. Always compare the housing and bolt pattern before ordering.
Does this differential cover include a gasket?
A gasket is not listed as included. Depending on the axle and installation preference, use the correct Dana 44 gasket or an approved differential-cover sealant.
Why choose a low-profile lipless differential cover?
A lipless cover reduces the raised edge that can catch on rocks and ledges. The smoother profile helps the axle slide over obstacles while still protecting the ring gear and internal differential components.
Does the unfinished steel cover need to be coated?
Yes. Unfinished steel can corrode when exposed to moisture, mud, and road salt. Paint or powder coat the exterior after test fitting, while keeping the machined sealing surface and threads free of coating buildup.