What Ford trucks came with a Dana 60 front axle?
The Dana 60 front axle is most commonly found on Ford’s late-1990s to early-2000s heavy-duty lineup—the F-250 and F-350 Super Duty pickups and the Excursion SUV were the primary Ford models equipped with it.
In detail, this article examines which Ford models left the factory with a Dana 60 front axle, how to identify it, and what to check when verifying a specific vehicle. The Dana 60 is a robust front axle designed for heavy towing and off-road work, and Ford reserved it for its most capable trucks during that period.
Ford models commonly fitted with a Dana 60 front axle
Below are the Ford vehicles most widely documented as leaving the factory with a Dana 60 front axle in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Availability can vary by year, trim, and market, so verify on the specific vehicle.
- Ford F-250 Super Duty (1999–2004) 4x4
- Ford F-350 Super Duty (1999–2004) 4x4
- Ford Excursion (1999–2005) 4x4
The three models above represent the core lineup most consumers reference when discussing Ford Dana 60 front axles. While some special-purpose or cab-chassis variants may have used similar axles during the era, the above trio is the reliable starting point for identifying a Dana 60 on a Ford vehicle.
How to verify a Dana 60 front axle in a Ford
To confirm the presence of a Dana 60 front axle, use a straightforward inspection and documentation check. This section explains the steps you can take.
- Inspect the front differential housing and cover for "Dana Spicer" markings and the number "60" on the tag or casting.
- Count the wheel lugs: a Dana 60 front axle typically uses eight lug nuts per wheel.
- Check the axle tube stamping or engraving on the housing, which may indicate "D60" or "Spicer 60."
- Cross-check the VIN/build sheet to confirm the axle specification for the exact vehicle configuration.
If the vehicle has an eight-lug pattern, a front differential that bears Dana/Spicer markings, and matching documentation, it is highly likely to be equipped with a Dana 60 front axle. When in doubt, consult a dealer or axle specialist with the vehicle's VIN for definitive confirmation.
Summary
In practical terms, Ford's Dana 60 front axle is most closely associated with the 1999–2004 F-250/F-350 Super Duty pickups and the 1999–2005 Excursion. While variations can exist in special configurations, those three models constitute the bulk of Ford vehicles equipped with the Dana 60 front axle from that era. Verifying axles through markings, lug count, and VIN remains the best approach for certainty.
What front axle is in a 2006 F250?
Fitment: Replacement for 2005-2014 Ford F-250 Super Duty (Dana 60 AXLE)
How do I tell if I have a Dana 60 front axle?
You can identify a Dana 60 front axle by looking for a "60" cast into the housing, an asymmetrical 10-bolt cover, and straight axle tubes. For more specific details like gear ratio, check for the Bill of Materials (BOM) number, which is stamped on a tag on the cover or on the right-side axle tube.
Visual identifiers
- "60" casting: Look for the number "60" cast directly into the axle housing or differential cover.
- 10-bolt cover: The differential cover is held on by 10 bolts and has an asymmetrical shape.
- Straight axle tubes: A Dana 60 has straight axle tubes, not curved ones.
- High-pinion design: Some versions have a high-pinion design, with the driveshaft entering the top of the differential.
- Kingpin knuckles: Older models have kingpin knuckles, which are identifiable by a four-bolt cap on top of the knuckle.
This video demonstrates how to identify a Dana 60 by its kingpin knuckles: 56sIanYouTube · May 11, 2012
Identification using the BOM number
- Location: The Bill of Materials (BOM) number is stamped on a small metal tag attached to the differential cover with two bolts. It may also be found stamped on the front side of the right axle tube.
- Format: The BOM number is typically a 6 or 7 digit number, often starting with '6' or '60' for older axles, followed by a dash number (e.g., 610604-2).
- What it tells you: This number provides the specific configuration of your axle, including the gear ratio, differential type, and spline count. You can use this number to look up your axle's exact specifications online.
What Ford trucks came with the Dana 60?
Ford used Dana Super 60 Front Driving Axles in 2005-2016 F250, F350, F450, and F550 Super Duty 4x4 trucks.
When did Ford stop using King Pin Dana 60?
Ford and Chevy stopped in 1991. However, We still love building them!
