Rear axle for MB

[Jimmyku1]

Previous owner put in a Dana 44 on the rear of my 1945 MB.
I know a Dana 44 is newer and stronger than a Dana 23, but it looks obvious to everyone that it is not original. I am not a purist, but I would like my Jeep to look right. I don’t do heavy crawling or have a “need” for the stronger rear end.
Also, would I be able to match gears (5:38) in a Dana 23 ?
What to do ??

[JAB]

Your original gear ratio was 4.88:1 so if you get a proper rear assembly you would have to correct the front. Both ratios are available for your differentials so you do have the option of changing the "new-to-you" model 23 to 5.38:1 or putting the front back to "normal" (4.88:1).

[Sargent Resorator]

I may have a gpw rear axle assembly. What is your location?

[Jimmyku1]

Thanks for the responses. I live near Fort Worth Texas. The front differential has been changed to a 5:38 so I woul just match the Dana 23 to that.

[Jimmyku1]

Do you think there is any trade value for my Dana 44 ?
Or, what would it be worth to someone ?

[Adam]

I have a couple of MB rear ends, in pa though, I think the 44 was available in 2 spline counts for the cj jeeps, also some had factory lockers in them. To me, i have no use for a 44 so it is not worth anything to me. Try posting in the cj section or on one of the cj websites or facebooks site to c if anybody wants one.

Adam

[JAB]

It had more value to off-roaders with big tires 20 years ago than it does now, but it still has value, possibly equal to what the model 23 will cost you for the right person.

[Weaseler]

I have one in New Mexico

[Jimmyku1]

Thanks everyone for your responses. I am trying to work a deal for one of the rear end assemblies in NM. If that doesn’t work out, I will still be on the hunt.

[Jimmyku1]

Found both a front and rear (Dana 23) sacked with 4:88. Both gear sets are a bit pitted. If I want to leave the front alone, where can I find 5:38 ring and pinion for a Dana 23 ?

[Adam]

Take it out of the front of any stock cj2a. ring, pinion and carrier are the same as the ww2 jeep

Adam

[JAB]

Or put what belongs there; https://www.armyjeepparts.com/p-596-rin ... 01925.aspx

Seems pricey for a used take-out, but here's a 5.38:1 https://www.kaiserwillys.com/category/a ... 5-38-ratio