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Build or swap axles

Iwanajeep131

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I have a 25 Rubicon and in the "process" of building my axles. Parts have been sitting in my garage for 2 months.

Question is, somes selling an already built 2022 sport max tow axle with 5.13, reid knuckles, baller joints, rcv, truss and gusseted and eanton e locker. Has 12k miles on them for $5500. I basically have the same parts ready to install. Should I just swap the axles and sell my stock axles and parts? Is it dumb to go from Rubicon to sport max tow axle?

Only considering this because regear to 5.13 is about 2900 in my area.
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caryt

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No, I've thought about doing that also instead of one tons. Just add RCV's.
Make sure the welding was done correctly and tubes are straight.
 

Janster

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Honestly?? Back 25 years ago…my husband and I had Dana 44’s built with help from the professionals (gearing, lockers, welding,etc). We knew EXACTLY what we wanted and exactly what we were building.

So…. I personally believe building it yourself is better because you knew exactly what you’re getting. Buying something used….Or already built, there’s a bit of unknown. Unless you’re buying NEW from a custom shop.
 

Bandit’s Lair

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I look at axles like a sports car. If they’ve already been built they’ve been used. How hard did the original owner go and are they upgrading because it wasn’t strong enough for what they were doing. I’d say it’s better to go with the build if you have the cash already planned out. You get the exact components you decided on new in the box. Then you can only blame yourself if it doesn’t work.
 

Alpine Warthog

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a thorough inspection of the axles should tell you everything you need to know. If they guy won't let you pop the dif covers, walk away. Is the Eaton E-locker better than the stock rubi locker? I'd buy the axles and sell mine. You're way ahead financially.
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