What Dodge trucks have Dana 60 axles?
The Dana 60 front axle has long been a hallmark of Dodge’s Ram heavy‑duty pickups. The most common Dodge trucks to carry a Dana 60 are the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 heavy‑duty pickups, especially in 4x4 configurations. Some chassis‑cab variants also used the same front axle in certain years. This article explains which models typically include the Dana 60, how to identify it on a vehicle, and what to watch for when evaluating a used Dodge Ram.
Models that typically use the Dana 60 front axle
The Dana 60 front axle has been standard in Dodge Ram heavy‑duty trucks for many generations. It is most often found on the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 pickups, particularly in four‑wheel‑drive configurations where the heavy‑duty front differential is required.
- Ram 2500 pickup (heavy‑duty 3/4‑ton)
- Ram 3500 pickup (heavy‑duty 1‑ton)
- Ram Chassis Cab variants that use heavy‑duty front axles (verify specific year/model)
Note: Exact axle configurations can vary by year, trim, and market. Always verify the axle type on the vehicle’s build sheet or with the axle tag since some years offered alternative front axles or trim‑level options.
Identification tips to confirm a Dana 60 axle
To confirm whether a Dodge Ram has a Dana 60 front axle, look for specific markings and identifying features. The following indicators can help you verify the axle type without removing the cover.
- Inspect the front differential cover for a "Dana" or "Spicer" marking and a "60" designation on the cover or a tag.
- Check axle codes on the build sheet, VIN decoders, or a tag on the axle housing that indicates "D60" or similar designation.
- Note the front wheel hub pattern; many Ram heavy‑duty Dana 60 fronts use an 8‑lug bolt pattern, which differs from lighter‑duty axles.
- Observe the axle geometry and mounting style (solid front axle with appropriate radius arms or link mounts typical of Dana 60 configurations).
These clues will help you verify whether a Dodge Ram’s front axle is a Dana 60 when shopping for a used truck or confirming specs on a particular build.
Current notes about the Ram lineup
In recent years, Ram has continued to offer robust front‑axle configurations for its heavy‑duty line, with the Ram 2500 and 3500 remaining the core models associated with the Dana 60 front axle in many configurations. However, axle options can vary by model year, market, and specific trim packages. Always confirm the exact axle on the vehicle you’re evaluating by checking the build sheet, axle tag, or factory documentation.
Summary
For Dodge (Ram) trucks, the Dana 60 front axle is most closely associated with the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 heavy‑duty pickups, especially in 4x4 configurations. Some chassis‑cab variants may also use the same front axle in certain years. When evaluating a used Ram, verify the axle type via the differential cover markings, axle codes, or build documentation to confirm you’re getting a Dana 60.
Is a Dana 70 stronger than a Dana 60?
The torque rating for a stock Dana 70 axle shaft is 8966 ft/lbs, which is almost 50% stronger than the stock Dana 60 axle shaft, which has a rating of 6044 ft/lbs.
What front axle is in a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500?
Dana 60 Front
All 2000-2002 Dana 60 Front Axles in Dodge Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 trucks had a Bill of Material Number (BOM) stamped on a Axle ID Build Tag attached to the differential by two of the differential cover bolts when the vehicle was shipped from the factory but, unfortunately, these tags are often missing on trucks that had ...
What trucks have Dana 60?
Many trucks and vans have used Dana 60 axles, including various Ford F-Series and Super Duty trucks, Dodge Ram 2500/3500 models, and Chevrolet/GMC K10, K20, K30, and Silverado trucks, as well as some older Jeep models and E-Series vans. The specific application and configuration (like front or rear, or the "Super 60") can vary significantly by model year and manufacturer.
Ford
- F-Series (1961–1991): Both front and rear Dana 60s were used in F-250 and F-350 models.
- E-Series Vans (1980–2012): Used Dana 60 axles.
- Super Duty (1991–present): F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 trucks use Dana "Super 60" axles, which are heavier-duty versions.
Dodge
- Ram 2500/3500: These models have used Dana 60 axles, particularly in the rear.
Chevrolet/GMC
- K10, K20, K30: These 1-ton trucks often came equipped with Dana 60 axles.
- Silverado 1500, 2500/3500: Newer models have also featured Dana 60 axles.
Jeep
- Wrangler: Many Jeep models have used Dana 60 axles, and they are a popular swap for off-road builds due to their strength and aftermarket support.
- Cherokee: Some older Jeep models also came with Dana 60 axles.
What years did Dodge use Dana 60?
Rear axle
- 1966–1970 Coronet & R/T.
- 1966–1972 Charger & R/T.
- 1968–1972 Super Bee.
- 1970–1971 Challenger.
- 1963–1993 Dodge Ram 250 and 350.
- 1994–2002 Dodge Ram 2500 (V8 only)
- 2004–2006 Dodge Ram SRT-10.
