D44 locker install

[FINOCJ]

Looking to see if a club member and or associated shop would want to help me get an eaton locker installed in my D44. I am pretty aggressive to doing my own work - even when i learn something the hard way and have to redo it - but this project might be a bit borderline given the greater context. I am willing to consider everything from doing it in my garage or someone else's shop and paying for beer and pizza and whatever tools etc, to taking it to a full service shop and paying for complete service. One of my big concerns is I am not sure how much time I have to devote to such a project over the next couple months given the winter to spring season (my busiest), and want to make sure it would be ready in time for a summer Rubicon run. In theory, my current R&P is set-up correctly, and thus all I am changing out is the case and bolting the ring gear to the new case...the pinon depth should not be touched and the side shims should stay the same but would need to be checked before and after to ensure all is good. Of course, 'in theory' sometimes turns into 'in reality'. Also wondering about redoing the axle shaft bearing and seals etc while I am in there... any thoughts...?

[open_circuit]

I'm no help here, but I want to follow this thread since I've been curious about Eaton / e-lockers as a possible future upgrade for my LJ. Would like to hear how this goes for you, James.

[Brian]

I know it's not exactly local, but Predator 4x4 would probably be a drop off in the AM, pick up in the PM one day turn around. They're definitely a quality shop and have a great reputation for standing behind their work.

[Java]

I've done my own three times in my 44 rear on my current LJ with no setup needed, once to replace the OEM traclok with an open carrier / spartan locker (too harsh), then to replace that with a truetrac (original design with case flaw that failed), then another truetrac (still going).

Here's a link with a video of to how to do it: http://www.frontrange4x4.com/forums/showthread.php?21816-How-to-Install-a-Detroit-TrueTrac

and a link to my last install thread: http://www.frontrange4x4.com/forums/showthread.php?21787-Rear-Axle-Noise

I'd be glad to help out if our schedules sync, but IMO given the stuff you have posted up you will have no problem doing it yourself in just a couple of hours. It's surprisingly easy when you don't have to setup the gears, just pull the shafts, take off four cap bolts and it's out. r/r a dozen or so ring gear bolts, press on the new bearings and reverse. I still have the gauge in that link I can loan you too. It's a good time to switch to a rubber diff cover gasket too, that way you can r/r your diff cover without dealing with silicon.