Dynatrac's Pro Rock 60s seemed to be an appropriate match for 4 Wheel Drive & Sport Utility's Project Scrambled Adventurer. I was looking for a set of axles that could be built once, built right, and last for years with only minimal maintenance. There is quite a lot to be said for peace of mind when you're out on the trail and miles from the nearest highway (not to mention even farther away from the local auto parts store). Because the vehicle is being built for extended overland adventure, I don't want to carry a whole heap of parts. The Scrambler does have the additional room, but it can be better used than as a traveling parts department.
Dynatrac axles start life as brand-new assemblies manufactured from the highest-quality materials, and the components are forged under stringent government standards. Everything is manufactured here in the USA. A proprietary grade of nodular iron is used to cast the center sections (third members), wheel hubs, and inner knuckles. The use of quality materials optimizes ductility in the iron which maintains its strength qualities. Because of the quality control and materials, Dynatrac axles come with a full, 12-month written warranty.
As I mentioned in last month's issue, Project Scrambled Adventurer isn't being built to run the Hammer Trails in Johnson Valley, California, or to be destroyed on some totally insane trails. It is being built for long-haul overland adventure. This adventure could take place in the outback of Alaska, the Mojave Desert, or the Rocky Mountains; it is imperative that all components stand up to any obstacle I might encounter while wheeling the unknown. There may be some instances when I'm out exploring by myself, and a breakdown could mean significant, unwelcome hardships.
Since the Scrambler will be powered by a 5.9L Mopar engine with the torque multiplied by a low-geared transfer case and running 37-inch tires, I don't want to be snapping axles and gearsets. Even though swapping an axle out on the trail is a relatively easy task, it is nevertheless extremely inconvenient. Adhering to the age-old adage that bigger is better, I chose to go with a Pro Rock 60, Dynatrac's bombproof version of the Dana 60.
Dynatrac can manufacture any Dana axle combination and then some. Available are variations of the Dana 44, 60, 70, 70HD, and 80. The axles are available in the Trail Series (rear only) or Pro Rock. Axleshafts are available in three grades: 35-spline alloy, 35-spline Competition nickel alloy, and 40-spline Competition. Custom axles are available as well.
The axles were built with Dynatrac's custom bracketry for Currie Enterprises' Johnny Joint suspension system for the Jeep TJ. to be highlighted in the August '06 issue of 4WD&SU.