The ZJ Grand Cherokee is just as grand now as it was when first released, but for a different reason. Upon its introduction, it was touted for its V8 engine and its luxurious interior, not to mention its on-trail capability.
These days, the ZJ is still touted for the above-mentioned qualities, but it's taken on another accolade: it's become an affordable base for a trail rig project.
Historically, Jeep has equipped its vehicles with axles that generally hold up OK to stock-sized tires and moderate 'wheeling...and not much else. This indictment carries through right to the best-selling JK with its weak front axle housing.
Many Grand Cherokee owners might think they're stuck with the stock rear axle, but that's not the case.
What is the case is that Currie Enterprises has brought its array of axle offerings and adapted it to the ZJ. Depending on your needs, taste, and budget you can replace your ZJ's stock rear axle with a Ford 9-inch, a Dana 44, or a Dana 60.
What's the secret? It's largely (but not exclusively) in the bracketry. Currie can transfer the stock ZJ axle brackets onto any of the above-mentioned axles.
We'll be doing a two-part story on a ZJ Dana 44 rear axle upgrade in 4Wheel Drive; this will be a sneak peek.
The Currie upgrade re-uses the stock ZJ rear disc brakes, which saves on the initial upgrade cost, and makes it easy to buy replacement rotors, calipers, and pads.
To start the upgrade, the donor axle has to be stripped down and cleaned up. Currie technician Rafael Guzman started by removing the diff cover in order to drain the oil and pull the axle shafts and differential.