I bought a XJ D44 awhile back to use with a gear change. I knew it had some rust in the pumpkin, but I was changing out most of it so it wasn't a concern.

I ended up picking up a complete XJ D44 and now am selling the other. I have a buyer, but he wants to use the axle as is and not change out the gears.

To the question.. Went ahead and gutted the D44 and found that there is quite a bit of rust on the pinion and some same spots on the Ring gear. How must rust is too much rust? There is some pretty bad pitting on two of the pinion teeth. Is it possible to run this pinion?

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x282/balloo932/DSC05383.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x282/balloo932/DSC05382.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x282/balloo932/DSC05381.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x282/balloo932/DSC05379.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x282/balloo932/DSC05378.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x282/balloo932/DSC05381.jpg

Ditch it!!!

Ring looks like it can be cleaned up but if its a used set, ditch all of it. can't put a new pinion with a used ring as they are brother and sister. little redneck but can't be seperated.

Keep it as a last resort trail spare, but don't rely on it.

Both are shot, if its a trail rig then run it with crappy bearings too. if its gonna be on the street you need new bearings and gears.

That set is shot. I wouldn't even use that as a spare. Coffee table conversation piece or mailbox decoration maybe.

Boat anchor