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M226 Solid Rear Axle Swap

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#axleswap
284 views 5 replies 2 participants last post by  UpRockCreek53  
#1 ·
It’s official, weekend of Friday the 13th the pathy is getting solid axle swapped, went with MT xterra donor M226 and matching R180 with the 3.54 gearing. I will be creating a video surrounding the swap, as well as a detailed step by step for those wanting to take the plunge.

For now here’s the bare bones partlist:

-95 F250 leafs+add a leaf
-Barnes 4WD Spring and shock mounts
-Barnes 4WD 5in shackle plates
-LOJ M226 conversion flange
-Spicer 5-648x 1330-1350 U joint
-04-15 Titan 5100 bilstein shocks
-Energy suspension bump stops

Along with spring/shock/sway points to be welded to the frame, we will be replicating the same reinforcement found behind the spare tire brace on 05-15 x’s.

According to our measurements, no drive shaft modification will need to be made minus adapter u joint and adapter flange.
 
#2 ·
That sounds awesome. Are you doing mods to front suspension to raise/level it or is it going to be at the same height after leaf swap in? How much weight are you carrying that you're doing an +leaf?

Also, make sure your brake lines are long enough for when you're in full extension (full droop). I have no experience with Pathfinders but enough with Tacoma's.
 
#3 ·
I have a 2.5 in lift standard from Ironman4x4 right now, the rear will match it once we’re done. I have about 600lbs on the roof rack, and a full rear load when overlanding to justify the add a leaf. Good idea about the brake lines, we have donor lines from an x just in case, but worst case I’ll buy extended lines.
 
#5 ·
Funny enough no, two roam boxes up top packed with recovery gear and tools, rotopax mounts with their traction boards, a hi lift extreme, and 270 degree Ironman 4x4 awning. As well as my spare tire. My fiancée and I are able to fit a twin fold up 4in memory foam mattress inside, part of the reason I chose the pathfinder with the 3rd row. Works out well🫡