Hey all My name is Paul Saavedra from the High desert in CA.
I have a 97 isuzu rodeo that I have been working on. after braking a few half-shafts i think it's time to get serious about SAS. So this is were i'm @ i have been shopping around for front and rear diffs from a late 70's waggy and i came across some ramchargers that look like they have the same diffs i'm not sure but the guy told me front and rear diff's w/leaf springs and driveshafts 650.00 so i'm interested to know if those diffs would be beneficial or should i keep looking? Also any other tips would be great. Thanks for any input

Paul Saavedra

There were several styles of axle used in both vehicle. So the short answer is "yes" they could be same. However, the reason most folks use the Waggy axle is the overall width need not be modified.

I am not certain of the width on the Ramchargers. Make sure you know what you have before you jump on it. Also, $650.00 doesn't sound like that good of a deal. Unless they are built.

Great thanks for the input! i will measure the difference when i get a chance! i think i can also talk the guy down to 500 for both and they are stock. hopefully i get LSD with the diffs that would be nice. i'm looking for a identification method right now that way next time i'm out there i know what will be what! thanks again for the input! any other advise with steering linkage and gear box use etc for the install would be great to! I was thinking of getting Calmini steering linkage but i need to figure out the diff situation first i think.

once again thank you very much

Paul Saavedra

Definitely figure out the axle thing first. Then get it under your rig, then figure out your springs, then figure out your steering. It's a good idea to have a general idea of what you want before you start, but there is no tried and true on a SAS. Everyone did something different and unlike toyotas and chevys there is no kit, so it's one of this keep throwing thing at it until it fits.
As far as the axles, google. I found several different site with info on how to identify this axle or that one.

You have a dana44 rear axle all ready, so leave it there and just worry about the front.
First off the early waggy front axle is the easiest axle to use. It is about the right width and set up for spring under axle. The ram charger axle is pretty wide so unless you want full width stuff I would stay away. In any case plan on problems with front driveshaft length.

On a side note, have you given any thought to using '96+ trooper fronst suspension? With the upper a-arms and the lower ball joints, half shafts, tie rods, and brake lines. You would gain 1.5" per side and about 3" of wheel travel. Really transforms how the front end works.