How do I tell what axle I have on my Ford?
Knowing the type of axle on your Ford vehicle is important for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to identify the axle on your Ford car, truck, or SUV. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to determine the axle type on your Ford.
Identifying the Axle Type
The most reliable way to determine the axle type on your Ford is to consult your owner's manual or the vehicle identification number (VIN). The owner's manual will typically list the axle specifications for your particular model and year. The VIN can also provide clues about the axle, as certain digits correspond to the axle type.
If you don't have access to the owner's manual or VIN, you can also try to visually inspect the axle. Here are some tips:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Vehicles: Look for a large, round differential housing at the rear of the vehicle. This is a sign of a solid rear axle.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Vehicles: The axle is typically integrated into the transaxle, so it may be more difficult to identify visually. You may need to consult a repair manual or take it to a mechanic.
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Vehicles: These may have a combination of solid rear axles and independent front axles, so visual inspection may not be enough to determine the exact type.
If you're still unsure about the axle type, it's best to consult a professional mechanic or Ford dealer for assistance.
Why Knowing the Axle Type Matters
Knowing the axle type on your Ford is important for several reasons:
- Maintenance and Repairs: Different axle types require different maintenance procedures and replacement parts. Using the wrong parts or maintenance methods can damage the axle and other drivetrain components.
- Upgrades and Modifications: If you're planning to upgrade or modify your Ford's suspension, brakes, or other components, the axle type will be a key factor in determining compatibility and performance.
- Towing and Hauling: The axle type can affect the vehicle's towing capacity and payload ratings, which are important considerations for anyone who plans to use their Ford for towing or hauling heavy loads.
By taking the time to identify the axle type on your Ford, you can ensure that you're performing the right maintenance, using the correct parts, and making informed decisions about upgrades and modifications.
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 tell if I have a Dana 44 or 60 front axle?
Measure Your Axle
The Dana 44 differential cover will measure about 9 1/2 inches wide and 10 1/2 inches tall, while the Dana 60 differential cover will measure about 11 1/4 inches wide and 12 inches tall.
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 know if I have 8.8 or 9.75 rear end?
On the passenger's side upper and lower corners, there's two semi-circular divots that can easily be seen when looking at the cover from straight on. While the Super 8.8's cover has a bulge for the ring gear, it's not anywhere near as pronounced as the 9.75's.
