Yukon Gear High Performance Ring and Pinion Gear Set for Dana 30 Short Pinion in a 4.56 Ratio
The YG D30S-456TJ is a high-performance ring and pinion gear set engineered for the Dana 30 short pinion front differential as used in the Jeep Wrangler TJ, Cherokee XJ, Grand Cherokee ZJ/WJ, and Dodge Nitro. A 4.56 ratio is a popular choice for Jeep owners stepping up to 33-inch or 35-inch tires, restoring the crisp throttle response and towing torque lost after a tire size increase. YG D30S-456TJ is cut from 8620 case-hardened alloy steel and finished with Yukon's REM isotropic superfinishing process for quieter, cooler operation compared to conventionally ground gears. Each YG D30S-456TJ set is sold as a matched ring and pinion for guaranteed pattern and backlash compliance.
Features and Benefits
- Designed for the Dana 30 short pinion front differential in Jeep TJ, XJ, ZJ, WJ, and Dodge Nitro
- 4.56 gear ratio ideal for 33-inch to 35-inch tire upgrades
- 8620 case-hardened alloy steel for superior strength and durability
- REM isotropic superfinish for quieter, cooler, longer-lasting gear operation
- Computer-optimized tooth profile for even load distribution
- Matched ring and pinion set for precise fitment
- Pairs with rear Dana 35, Dana 44, or Chrysler 8.25 inch re-gear for a complete drivetrain upgrade
- Covered by Yukon Gear manufacturer limited warranty
Vehicle Fitment
| Year | Make | Model | Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 1998 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 1999 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 2000 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 2001 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 2002 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 2003 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 2004 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 2005 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 2006 | Jeep | Wrangler | SE |
| 1997 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 1998 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 1999 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 2000 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 2001 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 2002 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 2003 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 2004 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 2005 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 2006 | Jeep | Wrangler | Sport |
| 2002 | Jeep | Wrangler | X |
| 2003 | Jeep | Wrangler | X |
| 2004 | Jeep | Wrangler | X |
| 2005 | Jeep | Wrangler | X |
| 2006 | Jeep | Wrangler | X |
| 2003 | Jeep | Wrangler | Rubicon |
| 2004 | Jeep | Wrangler | Rubicon |
| 2005 | Jeep | Wrangler | Rubicon |
| 2006 | Jeep | Wrangler | Rubicon |
| 1996 | Jeep | Cherokee | Sport |
| 1997 | Jeep | Cherokee | Sport |
| 1998 | Jeep | Cherokee | Sport |
| 1999 | Jeep | Cherokee | Sport |
| 2000 | Jeep | Cherokee | Sport |
| 2001 | Jeep | Cherokee | Sport |
| 1996 | Jeep | Cherokee | SE |
| 1997 | Jeep | Cherokee | SE |
| 1996 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 1997 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 1998 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 1999 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 2000 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 2001 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 2002 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 2003 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 2004 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Laredo |
| 2007 | Dodge | Nitro | SLT |
| 2008 | Dodge | Nitro | SLT |
| 2009 | Dodge | Nitro | SLT |
| 2009 | Dodge | Nitro | SE |
| 2010 | Dodge | Nitro | Heat |
| 2011 | Dodge | Nitro | Heat |
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | YG D30S-456TJ |
| UPC | 883584104018 |
| Differential | Dana 30 Short Pinion (TJ, XJ, ZJ/WJ, Nitro) |
| Gear Ratio | 4.56 |
| Ring Gear Diameter | 7.17 inches |
| Pinion Splines | 24 |
| Material | 8620 case-hardened alloy steel |
| Finish | REM isotropic superfinish |
| Sold As | Matched ring and pinion set |
| Warranty | Yukon Gear manufacturer limited warranty |
What Is Included
- One ring gear (YG D30S-456TJ)
- One matched pinion gear
- Installation instruction sheet
Frequently Asked Questions
Does YG D30S-456TJ installation affect my factory warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer cannot void your entire warranty because of an aftermarket installation. They must show the specific part caused the damage in question.
What tire size works best with a 4.56 ratio?
A 4.56 ratio is well-suited for 33-inch to 35-inch tires on Jeep TJ, XJ, and Grand Cherokee platforms. It improves off-the-line torque and cruising RPM at highway speeds compared to the factory 3.07, 3.55, or 3.73 gearing.
Is the Dana 30 short pinion the same as the Dana 30 reverse pinion used in JK Wranglers?
No. The TJ and XJ Dana 30 uses a standard-rotation short pinion. The JK Wrangler uses a reverse-cut pinion. These are not interchangeable. YG D30S-456TJ is for TJ/XJ/ZJ applications only.
Should I re-gear both axles at the same time?
Always re-gear both the front and rear differentials to the same ratio simultaneously. Mismatched ratios in 4WD will cause binding, heat, and rapid wear to driveline components.
What install kit should I pair with YG D30S-456TJ?
Yukon Gear offers a matching Dana 30 master overhaul install kit containing all bearings, seals, and shims needed for a complete re-gear. Using a complete kit ensures a clean installation and avoids reusing worn components.
Do I need special tools to install ring and pinion gears?
Yes. Proper gear installation requires a pinion depth gauge, dial indicator, bearing press, and pattern compound. Professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure correct pinion depth, bearing preload, and backlash.
How long does a Yukon ring and pinion set last?
When properly installed with correct preload and backlash, and serviced at the recommended fluid change intervals, Yukon ring and pinion sets routinely last the life of the vehicle. Improper installation or running the wrong fluid is the primary cause of early failure.
What warranty does YG D30S-456TJ carry?
Yukon Gear provides a manufacturer limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Keep your purchase receipt and ensure professional installation to maintain coverage.
Installation Instructions
- Lift and support the vehicle. Drain the front differential gear oil completely.
- Remove the front driveshaft and front axle shafts to allow carrier removal.
- Remove the differential cover. Clean the housing mating surface.
- Mark and remove the carrier bearing caps. Note shim thicknesses.
- Remove the carrier and ring gear assembly from the housing.
- Remove the pinion nut, flange, and extract the pinion. Press off the bearing races.
- Install new pinion bearing races (from master install kit) into the housing.
- Determine and set correct pinion depth using a depth gauge and shims.
- Install new pinion bearings on the new YG D30S-456TJ pinion. Install pinion with new crush sleeve.
- Torque the pinion nut until pinion bearing preload is at the Dana factory specification.
- Press the ring gear from YG D30S-456TJ onto the carrier. Torque ring gear bolts to spec.
- Install the carrier with new carrier bearings and adjust backlash to 0.005 to 0.009 inch.
- Verify gear contact pattern and make corrections as needed.
- Torque bearing caps. Install the differential cover with new sealant and torque to spec.
- Reinstall axle shafts and driveshaft. Fill with recommended gear oil. Road-test and inspect for leaks.
Proposition 65 Warning: 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 go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov.
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