Dana 35 C-Clip Eliminator
Eliminator kits replace the c-clip retention with a bolt-on bearing housing, so a broken axle shaft doesn't eject the wheel from the rig.
The Dana 35 retains its axle shafts in the housing using a c-clip inside the differential. If a shaft breaks (which is not uncommon on 33s), the broken half — with the wheel, brake drum, and bearings — can EXIT the housing entirely. This is dangerous off-road and can result in significant damage or injury.
C-clip eliminators replace the c-clip system with a bolt-on bearing housing at the end of each axle tube. The new bearing housing has its own retention mechanism (similar to a Dana 44 or Ford 8.8 design) so a broken shaft stays in the housing. The kit includes new bearings, seals, and the bolt-on retainer plates.
Good kits: Yukon eliminator kit (~$220), Alloy USA (~$240), TeraFlex (~$280). Most kits require minor drilling of the axle flange for the new retainer bolts; some weld-on.
C-clip eliminators are MANDATORY for any serious D35 trail use with 33s. They do not strengthen the shaft itself — combine with chromoly shafts for the full upgrade. Even with both, the D35 is still the weakest link; the eliminator makes it safer.
Install: typically combined with axle shaft replacement (which is the same R&R job). Total time 4-6 hours including new shafts.
Why it works
- Eliminates wheel ejection risk
- Bolt-on conversion
- Pairs naturally with chromoly shafts
Trade-offs
- Doesn't strengthen shafts
- Still doesn't make D35 strong
- Cost of eliminator + shafts approaches axle swap
Tools required
- drill
- metric sockets
- torque wrench
- axle bearing tools
Parts
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Yukon C-clip eliminator kit | Yukon Gear & Axle | ~$220 |
| Alloy USA C-clip eliminator | Alloy USA | ~$240 |
Sources
Related
- Dana 35 Chromoly Shaft Upgrade (Stopgap)
- Ford 8.8 Explorer Rear Axle Swap (Full Guide)
- All Jeep Cherokee XJ guides & tools
- Browse the full DIY database
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. How we source guides. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.