Does a D44 HD front axle from a J20 have an 8 bolt pattern for the spindle bolts? I know it has 8 lug nuts, but I was wondering about the number of spindle bolts. Thanks.

not sure on the J20 but my 78 Ford F250 Dana 44 HD front has 5 or 6 bolts. I am thinking ford had one style, while chevy, amc/jeep, whatever had another pattern. Either way, I don't think it's an 8 lug pattern on the SPINDLE bolts. Search around for "Mr. N" on here, he used to have a pretty extensive bit of information on 44's
Aaron

I think it's just Scouts with the 8 lug spindle?

Yep, IH are the only 8 bolts. 6 bolts are the most common

Thanks.

So, other than the width, the only difference between a D44HD and a D44 is the 8 lug patterns and the little extra beef casting in the pumpkin? Correct me if I'm wrong.

I have a D44HD from a '74 J20 sitting in my driveway, and I can tell you for sure that it is a 6 bolt spindle.

Thanks.

So, other than the width, the only difference between a D44HD and a D44 is the 8 lug patterns and the little extra beef casting in the pumpkin? Correct me if I'm wrong.

Yep, thats it.