I'm usually pretty sure about how big I would go on a GM HD D44 front end, but this is right on the fence for me.

stock GM Goodwrench 350 (250hp, 330lb ft)
Powerglide auto (2:1 1st)
D300 (4:1)
4.10s
38.5" SXs

Terrain would be some dry rocks but lots of muddy wet slippery trails with roots and mud covered rocks.

Or should I save the $$$ I would need to put into the HD44 and buy a 60 instead? The bonus is that I alread have the 44 and only paid $100 for it complete.

If it were me I would run the D44 and keep a little ground clearance. But if I remember right there was nothing "special" about the HD D44, other than the lug count. With your tire size and gears you might want to run the D60.

Tough choice. :confused:

8 lug, 1/2" wall tubes, and mine has flat top knuckles on it.

Run the 44 and save up for the 60.:D If youve got the 44 go with it. Is it going in your Scout?

probably the Rover... V8s tempt me too much to keep a buzzy little 4cyl in there :D

The Scout is, for all intensive purposes, dead and I wish I could sell it.

If you want to sell the Scout go to Binder Bulletin (http://bbs.binderbulletin.org/forums) They are currently changing over the servers so the site is down as of now. I have had pretty good success selling on the board there.

38.5 SX's are a lot on a stock D44. With alloys and CTM's you would be fine but thats just money towards a 60.

Just grab a couple a sets of spare shafts and wheel the 44 until you can build the 60.

good luck