Upgrading to a Dana 44 from other Chrysler Jeeps

>Some models of the Jeep Cherokee XJ (and presumeably the
>Commanche) were produced with a Dana 44 rear axle. Does
>anyone know more specifics?
>What years? Any specfic models?

The D44 was produced from '87 to '91.  The rear for both
vehicles are exactly the same except for the spring mounting.
The Cherokee spring mounts above the axle whereas the
Comanche rides along with the springs below the axle.  I
don't know about the Comanche, but for the Cherokee, the
Metric Ton Package was required.  What is it?  Beats the shit
out of me.  :-D   The only available ratio was 3.55 (or
3.54).  The brakes are 10 x 2.5 inches.  The brake hardware
can be a little hard to find as there weren't that many
produced.  Bendix and Napa books show no application.  Lee
Brake Parts Co.  had them though. Got Bendex lifetime shoes
in mine.  Both the D35 and D44 use the same u-joints,
u-bolts, etc etc. The Comanche only extra feature (but I
don't think it's rear axle related) was a proportioning valve
based on the load in the bed.  NOTE: You will pay through the
teeth for one of these beauties.  They are very hard to find.
Took me a year and 30 something junkyards to find mine.
However I only paid $400 and no core charge.  :)  Why, cuz I
am special !!    Actually the guy said it sat there in the
building since '91 and in the business world, inventory that
sits around is wasted money.

- Joe Attardo