cast?

[Joopin]

Re: Towing questions?

One quick question, are axle tubes cast? I know the diff is....
We'll be welding to the pumkin when making my traction bar, I know that cast takes a good welder (got a guy) we have welded to the tubes already... I'm just curious.

 

[west747]

i am preetty sure that the pumpkin is a cast. the reason that it is so hard to weild to is because of the nickle content, i beleive. i dont think the tubes are a cast tho.

 

[jps4jeep]

As far as I know, the axle tubes are machined

 

[Joopin]

Well are there any tips on welding to cast? The guy welding for me is a really good welder, but I don't think he ever welded to cast. He thought the axle tubes were cast and I didn't. I really don't want him to screw up my new D44! Any advice would be appriciated. Thanks for the info guys.

 

[redrooster]

The tubes are not cast. They are DOM steel. The Center section is cast and has some nickel in it. The higher nickel content the better. The impurities are what makes it hard to weld. Weld small sections at high heat and let it cool before going again. Otherwise you may trash the rear end. Most people bridge over the center section for links and traction bars because the tubes are easier to weld.
Be careful when welding to the tube, not to let it get too hot. Dana 44's (especially scout) don't have very thick tubes and they WILL bend!

 

[Snitty]

the tubes are definitely not cast...