Used Dana 30 Front Diff for Sale — VIN-Verified.
Used & remanufactured differentials and rear axle assemblies — VIN-verified for the correct gear ratio, tested, and shipped from Pasadena. 0% restocking, ever.
Used & remanufactured Dana 30 Front Diff — VIN-verified, tested, and shipped nationwide from our Pasadena, TX facility. Fits Jeep Wrangler TJ/JK, Cherokee XJ, Grand Cherokee front.
The Dana 30 is the front-drive differential under most light-duty Jeep 4x4s, in high-pinion (reverse-cut) and low-pinion versions. Gear ratio, high-vs-low pinion, and disconnect-vs-non-disconnect design must match your axle, so we verify each against your VIN. Backlash and gear-pattern testing is run on every carrier we ship. Ultra Auto Parts TX is Houston's drivetrain specialist, and differentials and rear axle assemblies are squarely in our wheelhouse. From our shop at 5041 Spencer Hwy in Pasadena, we stock and source used and remanufactured differentials for trucks, SUVs and cars across the Houston metro — Ford 8.8 and 9.75, GM 10-bolt and 14-bolt, Dana 44 and Dana 60, Chrysler 9.25 and Toyota 8-inch. Every axle gets verified against your VIN and axle tag before it leaves. Drivetrain is our specialty, not a sideline — while general salvage yards sell whatever rolls in, we test differentials on backlash gauges and gear-pattern analyzers and match them to your exact gear ratio and traction setup. Whether you need a complete third member, a full-float rear axle assembly, or a limited-slip carrier, our bilingual (English/Spanish) team helps Houston, Pasadena, Deer Park and Pearland drivers get the right part the first time.
Known issues we check on the Dana 30 Front Diff
The Dana 30 is the front-drive diff under light-duty Jeeps, in high-pinion (reverse-cut) and low-pinion versions, so we confirm which yours uses. We inspect ring-and-pinion, carrier bearings, U-joints, and on disconnect versions the axle-disconnect mechanism, plus the inner-axle-seal leaks these develop. Gear ratio, high-vs-low pinion, and disconnect-vs-non-disconnect must match your axle, so we verify each against your VIN and check backlash and gear pattern before shipping.
Used vs. remanufactured Dana 30 Front Diff — which to buy
A tested used Dana 30 is a value when the gears, U-joints, and carrier check out, and ours are measured for backlash and pattern first. Remanufactured or a fresh setup makes sense on a build where you want new bearings and joints with a longer warranty. We match ratio, high-vs-low pinion, and disconnect type to your VIN. Send your VIN and we tell you honestly which fits your Wrangler or Cherokee.
Why buy a quality used differentials?
A used or remanufactured differential is a fraction of new or dealer cost, and a complete used rear axle assembly often drops in with housing, carrier, gears and axle shafts already matched. Low-mileage salvage units from the same year/make/model carry the correct ratio and spline count, so you avoid guessing. Reman is built to OEM spec with new bearings and a fresh gear set for longer life and a stronger warranty.
Common signs you need a replacement
Failing differentials give warning signs: howling or whining that changes with speed (worn ring-and-pinion or bad bearings), a clunk on acceleration (worn spider/side gears or excess backlash), metal-flake in the fluid, and chatter on turns from a tired limited-slip. Ignored, spider gear failure or a spun bearing can lock or destroy the axle — replacing the unit is often smarter than a partial fix.
| Feature | Ultra Auto Parts TX | Typical salvage yard |
|---|---|---|
| Restocking fee | 0% — ever | ~20% |
| Warranty | 6 mo – 3 yr | 6 mo flat |
| Fitment | VIN-verified to your vehicle | Not verified |
| Drivetrain testing | Specialized per component | General salvage |
| Service | Bilingual · 10-min response | Varies |
Quick Quote Fastest lead
Send Name + Phone + Part + ZIP. VIN recommended for exact fitment.
Fitment Flags We Check
- Gear ratio MUST match the other axle (and speedometer/PCM) — 3.42 vs 3.73 will not mix on 4WD
- Open vs. limited-slip vs. locker changes the carrier and behavior — confirm what you have
- ABS/traction tone (reluctor) ring tooth count must match your sensor
- Axle width, spline count and flange/bolt pattern vary within the same axle family
- Drum vs. disc rear brakes affect the axle ends and backing plates
- Verify with VIN plus the axle tag / door-jamb RPO or axle code — not just year/make/model
Heavy-duty axles for diesel and tow rigs — Dana 60/70, GM 10.5 14-bolt full-float, and AAM 11.5 out of F-250/350, 2500/3500 and Ram HD trucks — are available and matched to your GVWR and ratio.
What to send for an exact quote
- VIN (best — locks ratio, traction type and spline)
- Year / make / model / trim
- Gear ratio (from the axle tag or door-jamb RPO)
- Open or limited-slip / locker
- Front or rear, and 2WD or 4WD
Every differential and rear axle carries our standard 6-month warranty, extendable up to 3 years on eligible units, with 0% restocking fee on returns — ever. Reman axles get the longest coverage.
Local Houston-area delivery is free with our own drivers; regional runs are a flat $100–200 and out-of-state ships at exact freight cost quoted up front — no surprise fees.
How It Works
FAQ — Differentials in Houston, TX
Where can I buy a used Dana 30 front differential near me in Houston?
Ultra Auto Parts TX stocks tested, VIN-matched Dana 30 front differentials at 5041 Spencer Hwy Ste 101 in Pasadena, near Houston. We offer free local Houston delivery and nationwide shipping, open Monday through Friday 8 to 5 Central, English and Spanish. Call or text 281-436-9991 with your VIN.
How much does a used Dana 30 front differential cost?
Price depends on ratio, high- vs low-pinion, and disconnect type. We never quote from memory — send your VIN to 281-436-9991 for the correct tested unit. Every order carries a 0% restocking fee, so there is no risk if plans change.
How do you verify a Dana 30 fits my Jeep?
We VIN-match gear ratio, high- vs low-pinion, and disconnect vs non-disconnect design, since those must match your axle. We check U-joints, backlash, and gear pattern before shipping. Send your VIN to 281-436-9991 to confirm fitment from Pasadena.
Ultra Auto Parts TX is a used and remanufactured drivetrain-parts dealer in Pasadena, TX (Houston metro). 5041 Spencer Hwy Ste 101, Pasadena TX 77505 · (281) 436-9991 · Mon–Fri 8am–5pm CT · Bilingual · 0% restocking · 6mo–3yr warranty.
Shopping for a used differential or rear axle assembly in Houston TX? Ultra Auto Parts TX in Pasadena is Houston's drivetrain specialist for used and remanufactured differentials — Ford 8.8 and 9.75, GM 10-bolt and 14-bolt, Dana 44, Dana 60, Chrysler 9.25 and Toyota 8-inch. Every unit is VIN-verified for the correct gear ratio (3.42, 3.73, 4.10) and open vs. limited-slip setup, tested, and backed by a 6-month to 3-year warranty with 0% restocking. Bilingual service.