Dana 44 & Dana 60 - Axle Anatomy

The front ProRock 44 end forgings (right) are also more robust than the factory front JK 44 forgings (left).

The front ProRock 44 end forgings (right) are also more robust than the factory front JK 4

So, what makes a performance axle better than a stock axle? Let's look at a rear Dynatrac 60 versus a rear junkyard Dana 60. For starters, the Dynatrac 60 comes standard with larger diameter 35-spline axleshafts (1.5 inches) of a higher material quality, compared to the typical stock 3/4-ton Dana 60 with 30-spline axle shafts. The Dynatrac 60 also has Dana 70-size spindles, thicker tubes, higher-strength and higher-quality material, and stronger castings. And while the majority of stock Dana 60 axles have drum brakes, Dynatrac outfits its 60s with standard disc brakes. Lastly, the Dynatrac housing is much more robust than any stock unit and in many areas has been subtly enhanced for stoutness.

Part of Dynatrac's success comes from its proficiency at application engineering, and engineering aptitude in general. Dynatrac doesn't just add material and call it stronger; they strategically build strength and rigidity into the product and then prove it through testing.

In this photo, the size difference between a ProRock 44 and ProRock 60 are obvious.

Another area to consider is the material that goes into making the product. Just because two housings or axle shafts look the same and are said to have the same grade of metal, it does not make them equal. Dynatrac products are developed and manufactured in the United States with superior American steel. Because of the level of American manufacturing sophistication and quality control, Dynatrac consistently delivers on its promise of quality and strength. And if there is breakage, Dynatrac offers a "No Fault" 12-month, unlimited mileage warranty. Dynatrac makes no apologies for not offering the lowest priced products. Because of the value built into every axle, coupled with the engineering effort and premium materials, you certainly get what you pay for.

Dynatrac may be known for its 60s, but they have also made a name for themselves with their 44 axles. In fact, Dynatrac offers a complete family of axles-all the way up to the Pro Series 80 for extreme needs. And while Dynatrac has many application-specific configurations that come complete with stronger-than-stock bracketry and are ready to bolt on, they do custom applications for any of their axles and the customer always has the choice of front or rear placement, bolt pattern, gear ratio, traction aide, and axleshafts.

The ProRock 44 (foreground) and the ProRock 60 (background) are instantly recognizable by their unique shapes that offer unmatched ground clearance.

The ProRock 44 (foreground) and the ProRock 60 (background) are instantly recognizable by

So how do you decide which axle is right for you? Dynatrac looks at four criteria when recommending an axle for their customers: 1. Gross vehicle weight; 2. Tire Diameter; 3. Intended use; and 4. Transfer case ratio. With those questions answered, you will be well on your way to experiencing more worry-free and challenging adventures in your trail rig of choice.

While visiting the Dynatrac facility, we snapped a few photos to give you an up-close look at these popular axles.

Cost vs. Strength
Depending on driving style, it is generally accepted that a properly built Dana 44 is strong enough to handle a 37-inch tire. And since 37s seem to be the standard "go-big" tire size these days, we wanted to directly compare a rear Dana 44 to a Dana 60 on a fictional TJ with 37-inch tires (that is otherwise stock) and see where we came out. Both axles would be rear configurations, purchased from Dynatrac, set up with the same gear ratio, and both would have lockers.