Dana 44 vs. Chevy 10 Bolt: Which Axle Really Needs a High Steer Kit?
If you’re deep into the off-road world, chances are you’ve had the “Dana 44 vs. 10 Bolt Crossover high streel debate at least once around a campfire—or under your rig with grease-stained hands and a flashlight in your mouth.
Both axles are solid choices for building a capable trail rig. But when it comes to steering upgrades—especially a high steer kit—you’ve got to ask yourself: which one actually needs it more?
Let’s break it down in plain speak, like you and I are sitting in a garage with cold drinks, talking shop.
First Off—What Even Is a High Steer Kit?
If you’ve ever felt your steering get all out of whack after lifting your rig, you’re not alone. A high steer kit is basically a way to move your steering linkages (like the tie rod and drag link) up higher, usually above the axle’s knuckles. Why? So you avoid hitting rocks, fix your wonky angles, and get better control—especially on rough trails.
It’s one of those upgrades that seems small… until you hit a boulder and realize it just saved your steering from becoming trail scrap.
Dana 44: The Go-To for a Reason
Let’s be honest—the Dana 44 has earned its reputation. You’ll find it under Jeeps, K5 Blazers, old-school Broncos, Scouts—you name it. It’s tough, reliable, and the aftermarket loves it.
Now, here’s where the Dana 44 really shines: it’s high-steer ready. A lot of these axles already have—or can be upgraded to—flat-top knuckles, which makes installing a high steer kit much easier. No cutting, welding, or chasing unicorn parts.
And if you’re running a lift? Whether you’re on 4 inches or 8, your steering angles are probably screaming for help. A high steer kit smooths out your setup and gives you steering that actually responds, even when your suspension’s flexed out like a yoga instructor.
What About the Chevy 10 Bolt?
Ah, the CHEVY/FORD/JEEP DANA 44 COMPLETE
the unsung hero of many square-body builds. It looks a lot like the Dana 44 and can handle a fair bit of abuse. You’ll find it in plenty of GM trucks from the ‘70s to the early ‘90s, and it can be built into a capable trail axle.
But here’s the thing: most 10 Bolts don’t come with flat-top knuckles, so adding a high steer kit is a bit trickier. You’ll probably need to hunt down or machine new knuckles first.
And let’s face it—most people running a 10 Bolt aren’t bombing through Moab. It’s more common on mild builds—say, 33s or 35s, light wheeling, maybe some camping trails. For those setups, the factory steering holds up okay, and the urgency for a high steer kit isn’t as strong.
So… Which One Should You Upgrade First?
If you’re building a rig for serious trail duty, the answer’s pretty clear: go with the Dana 44.
You’ve got better parts availability.
It’s easier to install the kit—especially with flat-top knuckles.
It’s likely that your Dana 44 rig is being pushed harder, meaning you’ll feel the upgrade more.
That’s not to say the 10 Bolt doesn’t deserve a high steer setup someday. If you’re planning to push it, or already running a built 10 Bolt with a decent lift, you’ll definitely see a difference. But for most people? The Dana 44 just benefits more, more quickly.
Real Talk from the Trail
We’ve heard it over and over from folks who’ve made the swap:
“I went high steer on my Dana 44 and the bump steer disappeared. Steering went from sketchy to solid overnight.”
“Tried the same on my 10 Bolt, but sourcing the knuckles was a whole mission.”
At the end of the day, it’s about where you’ll see the most gain for the effort and cash you’re putting in.
Final Takeaway
If you’re deciding where to spend your upgrade dollars and you’ve got both axles in your garage—or are just planning your build start with the Dana 44 vs. 10 Bolt Crossover high streel . It’s easier to work with, makes a bigger difference, and supports you better when the trail gets real.
But hey, if your 10 Bolt’s already decked out and you’ve got the itch to go further, don’t let us stop you. Just be ready to dig a little deeper into the parts bin
