How do I find my Ford axle code?
Understanding your Ford axle code is essential for identifying the specifications of your vehicle's axle, such as its gear ratio and whether it has a limited-slip differential. This information is particularly useful when performing repairs, upgrades, or ordering replacement parts. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to locate and decode your Ford axle code.
What Is a Ford Axle Code?
The Ford axle code is a unique identifier that provides details about your vehicle's axle configuration. It includes information such as the axle type, gear ratio, and whether the axle is equipped with a limited-slip differential. This code is typically found on the vehicle's certification label or door jamb sticker.
Steps to Locate Your Ford Axle Code
Finding your Ford axle code is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to locate it:
- Step 1: Open the driver’s side door of your vehicle.
- Step 2: Look for the certification label or sticker, which is usually located on the door jamb or the edge of the door.
- Step 3: On the label, locate the section labeled "AXLE" or "AX." The code will typically be a combination of letters and/or numbers.
Decoding Your Ford Axle Code
Once you’ve found the axle code, you can decode it to understand your vehicle’s axle specifications. Ford provides axle code charts in their service manuals, or you can find decoding resources online. Here’s what the code typically reveals:
- Gear Ratio: The ratio of the number of teeth on the ring gear to the number of teeth on the pinion gear.
- Axle Type: Whether it’s a solid axle or independent suspension.
- Limited-Slip Differential: Indicates if the axle is equipped with a limited-slip feature for better traction.
Why Is the Axle Code Important?
Knowing your Ford axle code is crucial for several reasons:
- Repairs: Ensures you purchase the correct replacement parts for your axle.
- Upgrades: Helps you choose compatible upgrades, such as a different gear ratio or a limited-slip differential.
- Diagnostics: Assists mechanics in diagnosing axle-related issues more accurately.
What to Do If You Can’t Find the Axle Code
If you’re unable to locate the axle code on the certification label, here are some alternative methods:
- Check the Owner’s Manual: Some Ford models include axle information in the owner’s manual.
- Inspect the Axle Housing: The axle code may be stamped directly onto the axle housing or differential cover.
- Contact a Ford Dealer: Provide your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to a Ford dealership, and they can retrieve the axle specifications for you.
Conclusion
Finding and decoding your Ford axle code is a simple yet valuable process that can save you time and money when maintaining or upgrading your vehicle. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your Ford’s axle system. If you’re still unsure or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos for expert guidance!
Frequently Asked Questions
What axle do I have by VIN?
The VIN does not identify the axle. You'll have to do it the old-fashioned way of counting driveshaft/wheel rotations to get the ratio and to observe the wheel rotation to see if it's an open or an LS differential.
How do I identify my Ford rear axle?
The ID tag can be your friend. It will tell you the gear ratio, rearend style, and whether it has limited-slip. Also on the tag is an ID number, which, until 1985, included four to five letters, no numbers. Almost all 8.8s—and all post-1986 Ford rearends—have letters and numbers.
How do I know what Ford axle I have?
Step 1: Locate the Axle Code
View the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver's side, front or rear door panel. 2. Find the word AXLE under the bar code.
How do I find Ford part numbers?
The Ford replacement part numbers are best obtained from your Ford dealership - they will be happy to find out the correct part number of the required part for your vehicle and give you the usual expert advice. Find your nearest Ford dealer here.
How do I find my Ford code?
It's usually located on the dash or on the driver's door. It may also be in your owner's manual, along with further instructions on how to rest your Ford door code.
How do I identify my axle?
Sprung and Torflex axle labels can be found on the side of the axle facing your rear bumper. The axle label provides critical manufacturing information, including the axle serial number, axle capacity, and axle build information. Locating your axle label will help ensure that you identify your axle correctly.
How do I find the axle ratio on my Ford VIN number?
To determine the axle ratio of your vehicle, locate the two-digit axle code first, then use your vehicle's towing guide to find the axle ratio that corresponds to that code. If your vehicle has a limited-slip differential, it will be noted as Limited Slip.
Where is the axle code?
Locate the axle code
Locate the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver's side, front or rear door panel.
What is the Ford 5 digit factory code?
Look for the factory code.
The 5 digit security code is usually in the glove department if you have not moved the owner's wallet card. The 5 digit code can also be found on years 2011- 2018 on a white label inside passenger side fuse box, it will be the 5 numbers you need, followed by a letter.
Where do I find my axle size?
You should find it on the driver's side of the trailer. A second way to determine the size axle you need is to measure the diameter of your existing axle. The tube in our video example measures at 2 and 3/8ths of an inch. You can use this measurement to identify the axle.
