A drive axle passes torque from the driveshaft to the wheels and, thanks to the differential, lets them turn at different speeds in corners. Parts here are sorted by axle model: gears, bearings, seals and axle shafts for Dana and Chrysler axles, among others.
In this guide: Axles identified in millimeters, Chrysler 8.25 axles, Chrysler 9.25 axles, Dana 30 axles, Dana 35 axles, Dana 44 axles, Transfer cases.
Axles identified in millimeters
What it is: These are newer axles described by their ring gear diameter in millimeters. This group covers parts for their gears, bearings and seals.
Where it is fitted: At the front or rear of the vehicle depending on the model, mainly in newer Jeeps, Dodges and RAMs.
Signs of wear: Speed-dependent whining or humming, clunks when pulling away and oil leaks.
Did you know: Newer Dana axles, such as those in the Wrangler JL, carry names like M186, M200, M210 or M220, and the number is the ring gear diameter in mm.
Shop — Axles identified in millimeters
Chrysler 8.25 axles
What it is: The Chrysler 8.25 is a rear axle used in many Jeeps and Dodges. This group covers parts for its gears, differential, bearings and seals.
Where it is fitted: At the rear of the vehicle as the rear drive axle.
Signs of wear: Whining or humming while driving, clunks when pulling away and oil leaks at the axle shafts or pinion.
Did you know: 8.25 is the ring gear diameter in inches (about 210 mm); the catalog variants differ in size, so compare the axle marking on your car before ordering.
Chrysler 9.25 axles
What it is: The Chrysler 9.25 is a larger axle used mainly in Dodge/RAM pickups and SUVs. This group covers parts for its gears, bearings and seals.
Where it is fitted: Usually at the rear of the vehicle as the rear drive axle.
Signs of wear: Whine under load, slack when pulling away, oil leaks at the pinion or cover.
Did you know: A Chrysler 9.25 is easy to tell from the smaller 8.25 by its 12-bolt cover instead of 10.
Dana 30 axles
What it is: The Dana 30 is a common front drive axle in Jeeps. This group covers parts for its differential, bearings, seals and axle shafts.
Where it is fitted: At the front of the vehicle as the front drive axle, for example in Wranglers and Cherokees.
Signs of wear: Whining or humming that changes with speed, oil leaking at the pinion, or play in the knuckles and joints.
Did you know: The Dana 30 comes in low-pinion and high-pinion (reverse-cut) versions, and their gear sets are not interchangeable.
Dana 35 axles
What it is: The Dana 35 is a rear axle used in many Jeeps, including the Cherokee XJ and the Wrangler YJ/TJ. This group covers parts for its gears, bearings and axle shafts.
Where it is fitted: At the rear of the vehicle as the rear drive axle.
Signs of wear: Humming or whining while driving, clunks when pulling away, oil leaking at an axle shaft or the cover.
Did you know: Dana 35 axle shafts are retained by C-clips inside the differential, so replacing a shaft means removing the axle cover.
Dana 44 axles
What it is: The Dana 44 is a strong axle used front and rear, including in off-road versions of the Wrangler. This group covers parts for its gears, bearings, seals and axle shafts.
Where it is fitted: At the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on the model and trim.
Signs of wear: Speed-dependent whine, play at the pinion, oil leaks or clunks when switching between drive and reverse.
Did you know: The number in a Dana axle name is a model designation, not a dimension, so gear size must be checked separately.
Transfer cases
What it is: The transfer case splits drive between the front and rear axles, and in many vehicles it also provides a low range (4L).
Where it is fitted: Behind the transmission, between it and the driveshafts.
Signs of wear: Difficulty engaging 4WD, clunks, whining or oil leaking at the output shafts.
Did you know: Use the fluid the manufacturer specifies for the given model; many transfer cases do not work properly on ordinary gear oil.
Where to next
- Catalogue: axles — choose your make, model and generation.
- Parts by VIN — we will check the fit for your car.
- Parts guide — other systems.
We sell aftermarket replacement parts, not genuine parts from vehicle manufacturers. Descriptions are general — check the fit for your vehicle by OEM number or VIN.