ok so I am going to run 404 axles this summer, I am just trying to find the best and MOST COST EFFECTIVE method.

let me outline how I plan to start this project.
I am running leaf springs. 6.2 diesel,sm465 and right now an aa adapter to a 4spd t-case
I plan on keeping the springs
and selling the t-case and adapter and running twin np205s driverside front shaft output.

who has run mog axles?
when you did was the pinion length a big deal?

how hard is it to swap center sections? I was thinking mini truck diffs would be a nice option as I have access to many, and then I could run the t-case setup I have now and save that swap for winter. But what do custom shafts cost?...

disk brakes would then follow next year but if I did a center section swap and could save the drive line length I would probly go for a pinion bake setup because of the simplicity and cost.

i have a pair of built 404 fronts but i do not plan on putting them in a cruiser. they're pretty wide and the pinions are super long, even with the pinion yoke conversion.
i think you're definetly gonna have to stretch your wheel base.

when you did was the pinion length a big deal?Yes it is a big design factor. You will most likely be very tall in the end---so you need to go wide and long to compensate. If you are building a crawler it is less of an issue since you can design in more down travel than up. If you need a lot of compression travel then you will most likely be pretty tall to keep away from the oil pan. I had my front axle narrowed to move the pinion further to the drivers side and away from the pan. Also allowed more room for the upper links to mount right on top of the center of the axle.

how hard is it to swap center sections? I was thinking mini truck diffs would be a nice option as I have access to many, and then I could run the t-case setup I have now and save that swap for winter. But what do custom shafts cost?...It is not easy but has been done. Biggest issue is strength. Stock 404 tubes are double wall.
If I were to go with a hybrid I would give EXAXT a call.http://www.exaxt.ca/ They built my custom 404's. Very happy with every aspect of the deal.

Rob (at Exaxt) ran leaves on his blazer with good success. Obviously axle wrap is a huge problem with leaves and portals. Control that well and you will be fine.

does any one know of a web page detailing how to swap center sections? befor i get out the swazall and welder ;)