I have a Dana 70 HD axle and need a differential for it.

I do not want a Detroit, but want a spool (not available I know) so I intend to get an open diff and Miller Lock it.

The problem I have is finding a large bearing 70HD open carrier in 4.56-7.17 ratio.

I have been told that if I get a Dana 70 U carrier that uses the smaller Dana 60 sized bearings (much more common) and machine the carrier bearing ends smaller by one hundred thousanth, the large bearings will fit and I can run the smaller bearing carrier in the 70 HD with no problems.

Anyone have any experience in this area and know if this is correct? I do have the Powerlock that came out of it for a couple more days before I have have to ship it out to get exact measurements on it, and have the bearings too. It seems like a reasonable solution if the carrier is the same otherwise.

Thanks in advance,

Ed

hit the yards and look at mid 70 's dodge class a motorhomes.
M500 chassis is big 5 lug pattern, 35 spline dana 70 HD.
Should be 4.56 or 4.88.
I know because i just rebuilt mine :)
That carrier bearing is HUGE!

you need to machine .125 off each end to make it a HD carrier i do it all the time

Originally posted by GearMan
you need to machine .125 off each end to make it a HD carrier i do it all the time

Is this off the diameter of the bearing journal? Seems odd that a 'HD" carrier would have a smaller ID bearing?? Whats the differance in the OD?...

How do you identify a 'HD' carrier? Im about to hit the JY today...Ill keep an eye out for one Ed.

Thanks Dave, the best way I know to ID the 70 HD is by the 70 HD stamped in the housing on the webbing.

If you can nab a 4.56 regular 70 housing, I sure would appreciate it! Of course if you see a 70HD with 4.56's........grab it instead!

Ed

Originally posted by GearMan
you need to machine .125 off each end to make it a HD carrier i do it all the time

Hey Gearman,

would you be interested in whipping up one more for me since you have experience with this process?

Ed