dana 44 problem

[Magic1]

Ok fellas. I'd like to get a few opinions and save myself a lot of wasted time. I've got a Dana 44 under the front of my 82 Sierra and it's got several issues. Leaking axle seals and rear pinion seal as well as needing a new pinion bearing. My question is this: Is the pinion bearing a part that rarely goes bad? Is it a waste of time trying to find a good replacement axle from a salvage yard or off craigslist? I've checked around and it looks like having mine repaired is gonna run me about 700$. The downside to that is it's expensive but the upside is it will be in new condition afterwards. I can find a replacement for around 1-200$ but if it has the same problems mine has now I'm back to square one along with the money I've sunk into the junk axle. Any opinions are welcome. I just put a locker in the rear end so I'm not afraid to crack it open but I just don't think I have the time or energy or tools even to fix it myself.

[Irish_Alley]

the thing is the special tools you need. but once you have them i would rebuild one cause like you said you dont know what your getting with a junk yard

[bake74]

     I agree with Irish, if are mechanical enough to do a axle reseal, then it is well worth the money to buy the tools.  If you are not able to set up the ring and pinion, then a shop can do just that part and the rest you can do.
     Most shops charge less if you bring them a axle that it out of the vehicle, because they can throw it on the stand and knock it out faster.

[Magic1]

Any of y'all have a part number for a master overhaul kit or know of one that would be a good one? (or know of a reputable source for one)

[bake74]

     That depends on if you plan on changing you ring and pinion.  If not then you need a kit that does not include these parts, a lot of master kits comes with new ring and pinions.
     I have always liked timken bearings rebuild kits for my jeeps dana 44's.  They make a nice kit that has lasted years for me while putting them through some tough rock crawling and desert racing.

[Magic1]

     That depends on if you plan on changing you ring and pinion.  If not then you need a kit that does not include these parts, a lot of master kits comes with new ring and pinions.
     I have always liked timken bearings rebuild kits for my jeeps dana 44's.  They make a nice kit that has lasted years for me while putting them through some tough rock crawling and desert racing.

Haven't planned on changing my ring gear but I haven't inspected it yet either. Just planning on replacing seals and bearings.

[bake74]

     Here's one on E-Bay for $135.00
 http://www.ebay.com/itm/DANA-44-CHEVY-FRONT-END-MASTER-INSTALL-BEARING-KIT-/230875249497?_trksid=p2054897.l4275

     But I would check with your local ring and pinion shop if you have any and see what they suggest.

[Magic1]

Thanks a lot bud! Will look into it.