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USA Standard Ring and Pinion Gear Set for Dana 44 - 5.38 Ratio
The USA Standard ZG D44-538 is a precision-machined replacement ring and pinion gear set engineered specifically for Dana 44 axle housings. The ZG D44-538 delivers a 5.38:1 final drive ratio that is ideal for large-tire off-road builds where low-end torque and crawl capability are essential. Every ZG D44-538 set is manufactured to exceed OEM dimensional tolerances using high-alloy steel with industry-leading heat-treatment processes. All USA Standard ring and pinion sets undergo rigorous in-house quality evaluation covering dimensional accuracy, material hardness, and backlash consistency before leaving the factory. The ZG D44-538 is covered by a Yukon Gear and Axle lifetime limited warranty and qualifies under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
What's Included
- 1 x Ring gear (Dana 44, 5.38 ratio)
- 1 x Pinion gear
- Ring gear bolts
Features and Benefits
- 5.38:1 ratio optimized for 35-inch-plus tires on trail rigs
- High-alloy steel construction for superior strength and durability
- Advanced heat treatment for extended service life
- Exceeds OEM dimensional specifications for proper meshing
- Lifetime limited warranty backed by Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
- Fits both front and rear Dana 44 applications
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number (MPN) | ZG D44-538 |
| Axle Application | Dana 44 |
| Gear Ratio | 5.38:1 |
| Ring Gear Rotation | Standard (check application) |
| Material | High-alloy steel, heat treated |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited |
| UPC | 883584201328 |
Vehicle Fitment
The ZG D44-538 fits Dana 44 differentials found in many Jeep, Ford, Dodge, and Toyota applications including Jeep Wrangler TJ and JK Rubicon (front and rear), Jeep Cherokee XJ with Dana 44 upgrade, Ford Bronco and F-150 with Dana 44, and Dodge Power Wagon. Always confirm your axle housing and spline count before ordering.
Why Choose ZG D44-538 Over Competitors
USA Standard gear sets are manufactured in ISO-certified facilities and carry the same quality standards as the Yukon Gear brand. ZG D44-538 is available at a competitive price point with the same lifetime limited warranty coverage you get from premium aftermarket brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a new install kit with ZG D44-538? Yes. Always use a fresh master overhaul kit when replacing ring and pinion gears to ensure proper preload and backlash settings.
- Is a 5.38 ratio good for street driving? A 5.38 ratio is primarily a trail/off-road ratio. It is not recommended for frequent highway use without regearing both axles.
- Does ZG D44-538 fit reverse-cut Dana 44 applications? The standard ZG D44-538 is for standard-rotation applications. Confirm your housing before ordering.
- What tire size is ZG D44-538 designed for? The 5.38 ratio pairs well with 35-inch to 40-inch tires to maintain factory RPM range.
- Does this include a carrier? No. ZG D44-538 is a ring and pinion set only. Your existing carrier may need to be swapped depending on ratio change.
- Is professional installation required? Setting gear mesh patterns requires experience and specialized tools. Professional installation is strongly recommended.
- What is the warranty on ZG D44-538? The ZG D44-538 carries a lifetime limited warranty from Yukon Gear and Axle under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
- Can this be used with a locker? Yes. ZG D44-538 is compatible with most Yukon and aftermarket lockers designed for Dana 44.
Installation Instructions
Installation of ZG D44-538 requires disassembling the axle housing, removing the old ring and pinion, setting pinion depth and preload with shimming, and adjusting backlash to 0.008-0.012 inches. A gear marking compound should be used to verify proper tooth contact pattern. Refer to a qualified drivetrain specialist for installation.
Prop 65 Notice
This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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