Yukon Gear & Install Kit Package for Jeep Rubicon JL/JT w/D44 Front & Rear in a 4.88 Ratio

Yukon Gear and Install Kit Package for Jeep Rubicon JL and JT Dana 44 Front and Rear in a 4.88 Ratio

The YGK068 is a complete gear and install kit package from Yukon Gear engineered specifically for the Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon and Jeep Gladiator JT, covering both the front Dana 44 (M210) and rear Dana 44 (M220) differentials in a single 4.88 ratio bundle. This YGK068 package combines front and rear ring and pinion gear sets with matching master overhaul install kits, simplifying the re-gear process into one part number. The 4.88 gear ratio is one of the most popular upgrades for JL and JT Rubicon owners running 37-inch or larger tires, restoring factory-like power and responsiveness after a tire size increase. Built from 8620 heat-treated alloy steel with advanced software-designed tooth geometry, YGK068 delivers precision fitment and long service life.

Features and Benefits

• Complete front and rear re-gear package for Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon and Jeep Gladiator JT in a single part number
• Covers both front Dana 44 (M210) and rear Dana 44 (M220) differentials
• 4.88 gear ratio, optimized for 37-inch and larger tire sizes
• 8620 heat-treated alloy steel ring and pinion gears for long life under high-torque off-road loads
• Computer-designed tooth profile for maximum strength and reduced noise
• Includes matching front and rear master overhaul install kits with all required bearings, shims, seals, and hardware
• Eliminates the guesswork of matching separate gear sets and install kits
• Designed using Yukon's state-of-the-art software for precision fitment
• 1-year manufacturer warranty; extended lifetime warranty available

Vehicle Fitment

Specifications

What's Included

• Front Dana 44 ring and pinion gear set in 4.88 ratio
• Front Dana 44 master overhaul install kit (carrier bearings, pinion bearings, races, seal, shim kit, ring gear bolts, pinion nut, marking compound, and hardware)
• Rear Dana 44 ring and pinion gear set in 4.88 ratio
• Rear Dana 44 master overhaul install kit (carrier bearings, pinion bearings, races, seal, shim kit, ring gear bolts, pinion nut, marking compound, and hardware)

Frequently Asked Questions

What tire size is the 4.88 gear ratio in YGK068 best suited for?
The 4.88 ratio is ideal for Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT builds running 37-inch to 40-inch tires. It brings engine RPM, throttle response, and fuel economy back to near-stock levels after the taller tire diameter increases the effective final drive ratio.

Does YGK068 fit both the two-door and four-door Jeep Wrangler JL?
Yes, YGK068 fits both the two-door and four-door (Unlimited) versions of the Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon, as well as the Jeep Gladiator JT, since all of these share the same Dana 44 front (M210) and Dana 44 rear (M220) axle housings on Rubicon trim levels.

Does this kit include a positraction or locker unit?
No, the base YGK068 package includes only the front and rear ring and pinion sets plus the master overhaul install kits. It does not include a positraction or locker. The Jeep JL Rubicon comes from the factory with electronic front and rear lockers, which are retained and do not need to be replaced during a standard re-gear.

Can I install YGK068 myself, or should I use a professional shop?
Differential re-gearing requires precision setup including backlash, bearing preload, and gear pattern verification. While an experienced DIY mechanic with the proper tools can complete the job, we recommend having YGK068 installed by a professional drivetrain shop to ensure correct setup and maximize gear life.

Does installing YGK068 void my Jeep warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, Jeep cannot void your warranty simply because you installed an aftermarket gear set. They must demonstrate that the YGK068 components directly caused any warranty claim. Consult your dealer or legal advisor for guidance specific to your situation.

Do I need to re-program my Jeep's computer after installing 4.88 gears?
Yes, it is strongly recommended to update the tire size and gear ratio in the vehicle's ECU after installing YGK068. This ensures that the speedometer, odometer, ABS, traction control, and other electronic systems function correctly with the new 4.88 ratio.

Will YGK068 work with non-Rubicon JL Wrangler models?
The Rubicon-spec M210 front and M220 rear Dana 44 axles are unique to the Rubicon trim. Non-Rubicon JL models use a different front axle (Dana 30 or M186). Verify that your JL has the Rubicon axle package before ordering YGK068.

How long does a professional re-gear installation typically take?
A professional drivetrain shop typically requires four to eight hours of labor to install both front and rear gear sets for a complete re-gear. Setup time can vary depending on the installer's experience with Jeep JL axles and available tooling.

Installation Instructions

1. Raise and support the vehicle securely. Drain gear oil from both front and rear differentials.
2. Remove driveshafts from both front and rear differentials and set them aside.
3. Starting with the rear axle, remove the differential cover and gasket. Clean housing mating surfaces.
4. Mark bearing caps, remove bolts, and extract the rear carrier assembly with shims and bearings. Keep shims labeled by side.
5. Remove the pinion nut and flange, then drive out the pinion shaft and remove the pinion bearing races from the housing.
6. Press new pinion bearing races from the YGK068 rear install kit into the housing bores using a race driver.
7. Press the inner and outer pinion bearings onto the new 4.88 rear pinion. Assemble the pinion with shims from the install kit and set pinion bearing preload per Yukon specifications.
8. Transfer the ring gear from the old carrier to the existing Rubicon rear locker carrier (or new carrier if replacing). Torque ring gear bolts to specification using thread-lock compound.
9. Install the carrier assembly with appropriate shims, set ring gear backlash to 0.005 to 0.009 in, and verify gear contact pattern with marking compound.
10. Torque rear bearing cap bolts to specification. Install new cover gasket and cover. Fill with GL-5 gear oil to proper level.
11. Repeat steps 3 through 10 for the front Dana 44, following Yukon's front axle setup specifications from the YGK068 front install kit.
12. Reinstall driveshafts with factory-spec torque on all fasteners.
13. Update the vehicle ECU for the new tire size and 4.88 gear ratio. Road test and verify all systems operate normally.

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.