Yukon Gear Master Overhaul Kit For Dana 44-HD Diff For 02 and Older Grand Cherokee

Yukon YK D44HD Dana 44-HD Differential Complete Rebuild Kit

The YK D44HD from Yukon Gear and Axle is a comprehensive master overhaul kit engineered specifically for the Dana 44-HD differential found in 1996 through 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee models. The YK D44HD delivers every precision component needed to restore your differential to factory-fresh performance in a single package. Whether you are rebuilding after high mileage wear or prepping for upgraded ring and pinion gears, this complete rebuild kit eliminates the hassle of sourcing individual components from multiple vendors. With Timken bearings, a full shim set, and all seals and hardware included, the YK D44HD is the definitive solution for a thorough Dana 44-HD rebuild.

Features and Benefits

• Specifically engineered for the Dana 44-HD differential in 1996-2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee applications
• Timken carrier bearings and races for long-lasting load capacity and durability
• Timken pinion bearings and races for precise pinion depth and reduced friction
• Complete pinion depth shim set for accurate gear mesh adjustment
• Complete carrier shim set for proper backlash and bearing preload
• High-quality pinion seal to prevent fluid leakage under all driving conditions
• Axle seals to keep differential fluid contained and contaminants out
• Ring gear bolts, pinion nut, and crush sleeve included for a complete hardware set
• Gear marking compound and thread-locking compound for proper setup
• Differential cover gasket for a leak-free seal
• All components sourced and quality-checked to Yukon Gear standards
• Designed for use with OEM or aftermarket ring and pinion gear sets

Vehicle Fitment

Specifications

What Is Included

• Timken front carrier bearing and race
• Timken rear carrier bearing and race
• Timken inner pinion bearing and race
• Timken outer pinion bearing and race
• Pinion seal
• Axle seals (pair)
• Complete pinion depth shim set
• Complete carrier shim set
• Ring gear bolt set
• Pinion nut
• Crush sleeve
• Thread-locking compound
• Gear marking compound with brush
• Differential cover gasket

Frequently Asked Questions

What differential does the YK D44HD fit?
The YK D44HD is designed specifically for the Dana 44-HD differential, which was used in 1996 through 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee applications equipped with this heavy-duty axle variant.

Is the YK D44HD compatible with aftermarket ring and pinion gears?
Yes. The YK D44HD works with both OEM replacement and aftermarket ring and pinion gear sets. The full shim set allows you to correctly set pinion depth and backlash regardless of gear brand.

What bearings are included in this kit?
The YK D44HD includes Timken carrier bearings with races and Timken pinion bearings with races. Timken is a trusted name in bearing manufacturing used by professional builders worldwide.

Do I need any additional parts to complete my Dana 44-HD rebuild?
The YK D44HD includes all the bearings, seals, shims, and hardware you need for a complete differential rebuild. You may separately require ring and pinion gears, a limited slip or locking differential unit, or axle shafts depending on your build goals.

Does this kit include a differential cover gasket?
Yes. A differential cover gasket is included in the YK D44HD kit so you can complete the entire rebuild without a return trip to the parts store.

Will installing the YK D44HD void my vehicle warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer cannot void your vehicle warranty solely because you used an aftermarket part. Your OEM warranty is only affected if the manufacturer can prove the aftermarket component caused the specific failure in question. Always consult your warranty documentation and a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

What is the warranty on the YK D44HD?
Yukon Gear and Axle provides a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Contact Yukon Gear directly for full warranty terms and conditions.

Is professional installation recommended for the YK D44HD?
Differential rebuilds require precision measurement of bearing preload, pinion depth, and backlash. Professional installation by an experienced drivetrain specialist is strongly recommended to ensure proper gear mesh, prevent premature wear, and avoid fluid leaks.

Installation Instructions

1. Raise and safely support the vehicle on jack stands. Drain differential fluid.
2. Remove the driveshaft from the differential flange and support it out of the way.
3. Remove the axle shafts and differential cover. Clean all mating surfaces thoroughly.
4. Mark the bearing caps and housing for correct reinstallation orientation.
5. Remove the carrier bearing caps and carefully extract the differential carrier assembly.
6. Press off the old carrier bearings and discard along with races.
7. Remove the pinion nut and yoke, then drive out the pinion shaft.
8. Press out the old pinion bearings and remove the old pinion seal.
9. Clean the differential housing bore and all bearing seats completely.
10. Press the new Timken pinion bearing races into the housing using the correct driver.
11. Install the new inner pinion bearing onto the pinion shaft. Install the correct depth shims determined by the pinion marking and measurement.
12. Install the new crush sleeve and outer pinion bearing. Install the new pinion seal. Thread on the pinion nut and torque to specification while checking rotating torque.
13. Press the new Timken carrier bearings onto the carrier. Install the carrier assembly with the correct carrier shims for proper backlash per the gear manufacturer's specification.
14. Apply gear marking compound to verify proper gear contact pattern. Adjust shims as needed.
15. Reinstall bearing caps to marked orientation, torque to spec. Install new cover gasket and cover, fill with the correct differential fluid, reinstall axle shafts and driveshaft, and lower the vehicle.

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.