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What Ford trucks came with a Dana 44?

Ford’s use of the Dana 44 front axle is a hallmark of certain vintage 4x4 trucks and sport-utility offerings. This article identifies the Ford models most commonly documented with the Dana 44, explains how to spot one today, and notes what it means for restoration or parts compatibility.


In brief, the Ford Bronco is the best-known Ford model that left the factory with a Dana 44 front axle; some early 4x4 F-Series pickups also used Dana 44 fronts in particular configurations.


What follows is a deeper look at the question: which Ford trucks carried the Dana 44, the years these axles appeared, and practical tips for verification and maintenance.


Notable Ford models equipped with the Dana 44


The following models are the best-documented Ford trucks that used the Dana 44 front axle, typically in 4x4 configurations. Availability varied by year and package, so verification is important when researching a specific vehicle.




  • Ford Bronco (1966–1977): The Dana 44 front axle is widely documented on early Broncos, often paired with a Dana 44 rear in certain configurations and popular with off-road enthusiasts.




  • Ford F-Series 4x4 pickups (late 1960s–1980s): Some 4x4 versions of the F-Series (4x4 F-100/F-150) used a Dana 44 front axle as part of specific trim levels or packages; not every 4x4 from those years used it, so check the axle.




Note: Modern Ford pickups do not come with a Dana 44 in factory production. The Dana 44’s appearance on Ford trucks is primarily a feature of that earlier era, especially on the Bronco and certain vintage 4x4 F-Series configurations.


How to verify a Dana 44 on a Ford truck


To determine whether a Ford truck has a Dana 44 axle, use the following confirmation steps. These methods apply to most Vintage Ford 4x4s and help ensure you’re identifying the correct axle.




  • : Look for the stamping or badge that says “DANA 44” on the front differential cover or on the axle housing. Some restorations retain the original badge; others may have markings cast into the housing.




  • : Many Ford trucks carried a tag or stamping with axle information (axle code, build sheet, or VIN-related data). A code indicating Dana 44 is the direct path to confirmation.




If you’re uncertain, photographing the front axle area and cross-referencing with factory service manuals or dealership build sheets can help. Additionally, posting detailed photos to Ford-truck or off-road enthusiast forums can yield confirmation from experts who specialize in Dana 44 swaps and factory configurations.


Summary


The Dana 44 front axle is most famously associated with the Ford Bronco (1966–1977), and it also appeared in select Ford F-Series 4x4 pickups in the late 1960s through the 1980s. Because axle configurations varied by year, trim, and package, the best way to confirm a Dana 44 is to check the differential cover or housing for a Dana 44 marking or to verify axle codes via factory documentation. For collectors and restorers, verifying the correct axle is essential for authenticity and parts compatibility.

What Ford trucks had Dana 44 axles?


Common applications

  • 1974–1993 Ramcharger (Passenger side)
  • 1980–2001 ½ Ton (W150/1500) (Passenger side 1980–1993, Driver side 1994-2001½)
  • 1988–1995 ¾ Ton (2500 Light Duty) (Passenger side 1988–1993, Driver side 1994-1995½)
  • 1972–1980 (W200) (Passenger side)



Which is better, Dana 35 or Dana 44?


The main differences are that the Dana 44 is stronger and built for heavy-duty use, while the Dana 35 is a weaker axle designed for stock applications. Key differences include the Dana 44's larger ring gear (8.58.58.5 inches vs. 7.627.627.62 inches), stronger 30-spline axle shafts, and more robust housing, compared to the Dana 35's weaker 27-spline shafts and reputation for breaking under stress. 

Feature Dana 35 Dana 44
Ring Gear 7.627.627.62 inches 8.58.58.5 inches
Axle Shaft Splines 27 splines 30 splines
Axle Shaft Diameter 1.181.181.18 inches 1.311.311.31 inches
Housing Weaker Stronger
Intended Use Stock vehicles Heavy-duty off-roading
Identification Oval-shaped cover Unique, angular housing
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How to visually identify the difference
  • Drain Plug: A Dana 35 has a drain plug directly in the middle of the differential, while a Dana 44's drain plug is on the side (lower left). 
  • Housing/Casting: A Dana 35 has a single rib on each side of the yoke, while a Dana 44 has at least three ribs. 
  • Axle Cover Shape: Look at the differential cover. A Dana 35's cover is typically an oval shape, while a Dana 44's is a unique, non-round shape. 

Why the difference matters
  • Performance: The Dana 44's larger ring gear and stronger axle shafts make it much better at handling the torque from larger tires and the stresses of off-roading. 
  • Durability: The Dana 35 is prone to breaking under heavy use, particularly the axle shafts, which can snap and cause the wheel to come off. The Dana 44 is considered more durable and is often the standard for heavy-duty applications. 
  • Upgrades: While some enthusiasts can upgrade a Dana 35, the underlying axle tubes can still be a weak point. Many experienced off-roaders opt to upgrade to a Dana 44 or a stronger aftermarket axle to avoid issues. 



What front axle is in a 2006 F250?


Fitment: Replacement for 2005-2014 Ford F-250 Super Duty (Dana 60 AXLE)



What vehicles came stock with a Dana 44?


Dana 44 axles are found in a wide variety of vehicles, including many Ford, Jeep, Chevrolet, and Dodge models, particularly 4x4 and off-road vehicles. They have been used in everything from half-ton trucks and SUVs to high-performance sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette and Dodge Viper.
 
Trucks and SUVs

  • Ford: Half-ton trucks (1968+), full-size Broncos (1978-1979), and some other 4x4 models 
  • Jeep: Wrangler (optional on many models, standard on Rubicon), Grand Cherokee (1996-2004), Cherokee (1987-1990 with tow package), and Comanche (1987-1992 with "Big-Ton" package) 
  • Chevrolet/GMC: Blazer, various 4x4 pickups, and early Silverado/GMC Sierra models 
  • Dodge: Ramcharger and various 4x4 pickup trucks 
  • International: Scout and other 4x4 models 
  • Isuzu: Rodeo and Honda Passport 

Sports cars
  • Chevrolet: Corvette C3 (1980-1982) and manual C4 models (1985-1996)
  • Dodge: Viper
  • Pontiac: GTO (2005–2006)
  • Classic Jaguars: Some models, including the E-Type 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.