Yukon Gear Master Overhaul Kit YK D44JL-REAR

Yukon YK D44JL-REAR Jeep Wrangler JL Dana 44 220mm Rear Differential Complete Rebuild Kit

The YK D44JL-REAR from Yukon Gear and Axle is the purpose-built master overhaul kit for the Dana 44 / 220mm rear differential found in 2018 through 2023 Jeep Wrangler JL and Jeep Gladiator JT models. When your JL's rear axle develops bearing noise, excessive play, or fluid leaks, the YK D44JL-REAR provides every precision component required for a thorough complete rebuild kit. Timken bearings, a full shim set, all seals, and complete hardware are included. Whether you are restoring worn components after off-road use or preparing for a gear ratio change, the YK D44JL-REAR ensures your Wrangler or Gladiator rear differential is rebuilt to exacting standards.

Features and Benefits

• Specifically engineered for the Dana 44 / 220mm rear differential in 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT
• Timken carrier bearings and races for proven load capacity and durability
• Timken pinion bearings and races for precise pinion depth setting and quiet operation
• Complete pinion depth shim set for accurate gear mesh and contact pattern
• Complete carrier shim set for proper backlash and bearing preload
• Pinion seal and axle seals to prevent fluid leaks
• Ring gear bolts, pinion nut, and crush sleeve for a complete hardware refresh
• Gear marking compound with brush and thread-locking compound included
• Differential cover gasket for leak-free reassembly
• Compatible with OEM and aftermarket ring and pinion gear sets
• All components quality-verified to Yukon Gear standards

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 is the Dana 44 / 220mm rear differential in the Jeep Wrangler JL?
The 2018-and-newer Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT use a Dana 44 rear axle with a 220mm ring gear diameter. This is a stronger unit compared to older Wrangler rear axles. The YK D44JL-REAR is engineered specifically for this application.

Does the YK D44JL-REAR work with Rubicon models?
Yes. The YK D44JL-REAR fits both Rubicon and non-Rubicon Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT models that use the Dana 44 / 220mm rear axle.

Are Timken bearings included?
Yes. The YK D44JL-REAR includes Timken carrier bearings and races and Timken pinion bearings and races for professional-grade durability.

Can I use this kit when installing aftermarket gears?
Yes. The full shim set in the YK D44JL-REAR enables proper setup for both OEM replacement gear sets and aftermarket gear ratios.

Is a cover gasket included?
Yes. A differential cover gasket is included in the YK D44JL-REAR for a complete, leak-free reassembly.

Will installing the YK D44JL-REAR void my Jeep warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a vehicle manufacturer cannot void your warranty solely because an aftermarket component was installed. The warranty is voided only if the manufacturer can prove the aftermarket part caused the specific failure. Consult your warranty documents and a qualified professional.

What warranty does Yukon Gear provide?
Yukon Gear and Axle provides a limited warranty on the YK D44JL-REAR covering defects in materials and workmanship. Contact Yukon Gear directly for full warranty terms.

Is professional installation recommended?
Yes. Setting pinion depth, backlash, and bearing preload requires precision measurement tools and experience. A qualified drivetrain technician is strongly recommended for best results.

Installation Instructions

1. Raise and support vehicle safely on jack stands. Drain rear differential fluid.
2. Remove rear driveshaft from differential flange and support out of the way.
3. Remove rear differential cover and clean all gasket surfaces.
4. Mark bearing caps and housing for correct reassembly orientation.
5. Remove carrier bearing caps and extract the differential carrier assembly.
6. Press old carrier bearings off and discard with races.
7. Remove pinion nut and companion flange, then drive out the pinion shaft.
8. Press out old pinion bearings and remove the pinion seal from the housing.
9. Clean all bearing bores and mating surfaces thoroughly.
10. Press new Timken pinion bearing races into housing using appropriate drivers.
11. Determine correct pinion shim using pinion depth measurement. Install inner pinion bearing and shim on pinion shaft.
12. Install new crush sleeve and outer pinion bearing. Press in new pinion seal. Thread on pinion nut and bring to torque spec while monitoring rotating torque.
13. Press new Timken carrier bearings onto the carrier. Install carrier assembly with correct carrier shims to achieve specified backlash.
14. Apply gear marking compound and check tooth contact pattern. Adjust shims as needed.
15. Torque bearing caps to spec. Install new cover gasket and cover, fill with correct gear oil, reinstall 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.