Nitro Gear & Axle
Nitro Gear & Axle D44RS-456-NG Dana 44 Ring and Pinion Gear Set 4.56 Ratio
Nitro Gear & Axle D44RS-538-NG Dana 44 Ring and Pinion Gear Set 5.38 Ratio Reverse Rotation
About Nitro Gear & Axle
Founded in late 2005 by Jeremy Ayers and Carl Montoya and headquartered in Cashmere, Washington, Nitro Gear & Axle grew from a deep passion for off-road performance and hands-on differential expertise. What started as an online retailer under J.T.'s Parts & Accessories evolved into one of the most respected names in the drivetrain world, earning recognition on the SEMA show floor — including three SEMA Global Media Awards in 2016 for its UAZ 5.14 ratio gears. Today, Nitro Gear & Axle operates as part of DPI Off-Road Brands, continuing to push the envelope for enthusiasts who demand more from their axles and differentials.
Engineering That Goes the Distance
What sets Nitro Gear & Axle apart is a commitment to materials and process quality that rivals — and often surpasses — original equipment standards. Their ring and pinion gear sets are manufactured from 8620 and 9310 steel forgings, Rockwell-tested for hardness, and precision-machined through a CNC triple-lapping process. The result is gear sets that are not just strong, but also notably quiet — a critical concern for drivers who split time between trail runs and daily commutes.
Every product goes through multi-point inspections and is set up by Nitro's own in-house differential specialists before it ever reaches a customer. That "install-and-verify" approach means fewer headaches at the shop and more confidence on the trail. Nitro was also among the first manufacturers to offer single-part-number front-and-rear gear packages, streamlining the regearing process for popular platforms like the Toyota Tacoma, Tundra, 4Runner, Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, Ford Super Duty, and RAM trucks.
The Right Gear Ratio for Your Build
Regearing is one of the highest-impact modifications a 4x4 owner can make. When larger tires are installed, the effective gear ratio changes — the engine falls out of its power band and fuel economy and towing performance suffer. Choosing the correct ring and pinion ratio restores that balance. Nitro's lineup spans ratios from approximately 3.21:1 all the way to 5.86:1, covering everything from mild street builds to dedicated rock crawlers and heavy towers.
Explore Nitro Gear & Axle's two core product categories below — both essential to any serious differential build:
- Differential Ring and Pinion — Precision gear sets engineered for strength, quiet operation, and broad ratio availability across dozens of popular truck and SUV platforms.
- Differential Gear Install Kit — Comprehensive master install kits that bundle OEM-grade bearings, seals, shims, and hardware for a complete, reliable differential build.
Built for Adventurers, Trusted by Professionals
Whether you are a weekend warrior fitting 35-inch tires on a Jeep Wrangler or a professional builder regearing a fleet of work trucks, Nitro Gear & Axle provides the components and the know-how to get the job done right. Their product line continues to expand to cover new vehicle applications, ensuring that as the off-road world evolves, Nitro stays ahead of it.