Dana 44 Rear Axle & Differential Parts Willys M38
U-Joints, Wheel Bearings and Seals for Reliable Power Transfer (1950–1952).
Why the Dana 44 Rear Axle in the Willys M38 Needs Attention After Decades.
The Dana 44 rear axle handles power transfer and drive in the Willys M38 and is under constant mechanical stress. U-joints on the driveshaft wear from continuous rotation, causing vibration and clunking noises once worn. Seals and differential cover gaskets harden over the decades and start leaking, letting axle oil escape and bearings run dry. Wheel bearings and bearing cups for the transfer case output wear from moisture and lack of lubrication, and axle shaft nuts loosen from vibration. On heavily used or older vehicles, the ring and pinion themselves can also be affected and may need complete replacement if worn or if a gear ratio change is desired. Anyone driving off-road or restoring their vehicle should check the rear axle regularly for play, leaks, and unusual noises.
- Axle Shaft Nut & Pinion Bearings: The axle shaft nut along with the outer pinion bearing set for the wheel end.
- Wheel Bearings & Seals: The outer wheel bearing seal and the differential cover gasket for a clean seal.
- Transfer Case Output Bearing Cups: The Dana 300 output bearing cup and the Dana 44/Dana 20 output bearing connecting to the axle.
- U-Joints & Driveshaft: The standard U-joint and the heavy-duty U-joint, plus the front and rear driveshaft slip yoke and the rear slip yoke.
- Ring & Pinion: The ring and pinion set with a 5.38 gear ratio for a complete swap.
Trusted American Brand Quality for Your Rear Axle.
The axle shaft nut, bearing cups, and differential cover gasket come from Crown Automotive – American engineering with a long track record in the Jeep/Willys segment. The outer wheel bearing seal, pinion bearing set, and heavy-duty U-joint are supplied by Dana Spicer, while the ring and pinion set and driveshaft slip yokes come from Omix – also a US manufacturer. No brand is listed in our data for the standard U-joint.
Support for Your M38 Rear Axle.
Whether you're replacing a single seal or overhauling the entire rear axle, we're happy to advise you on torque specs, installation order, and compatibility with other early CJ and Willys models. Your order ships from our warehouse as fast as possible, so you can keep your project moving.