What rear axle does a F-250 have?
The Ford F-250 uses a solid, live rear axle with leaf-sprung suspension. The exact axle family varies by year and configuration, but most recent F-250s rely on Ford’s 9.75-inch rear axle, with some older or specialized builds using a larger Dana/Spicer 60 unit. In all cases, the setup is non‑independent and tuned for payload and towing. To know your specific axle, check the vehicle’s build documentation or inspect the differential housing and axle codes.
Overview: the F-250’s rear axle configuration
The F-250 is designed around a traditional, non‑independent rear suspension known as a solid rear axle. This arrangement uses leaf springs to locate the rear axle housing and deliver strength for towing and payload. While the general layout remains consistent, the exact axle model and gearing can vary by generation, trim level, and options package.
Common rear-axle configurations in the F-250 over the years
Ford 9.75-inch rear axle (most models)
The Ford 9.75‑inch rear axle has been the workhorse behind many F-250 SRW models. It features a 9.75‑inch ring gear, a solid housing with leaf-spring suspension, and a range of gear ratios depending on year and equipment. Its robustness is well suited to daily towing and heavy loads, which is the core purpose of the F‑250 lineup.
Dana/Spicer 60 rear axle (less common or special configurations)
A Dana/Spicer 60 rear axle appears in certain heavy‑duty or specialty configurations. When used, it provides a larger, more rugged alternative to the standard 9.75‑inch unit, often with different gearing and spline counts. This option is not universal across all F‑250 trims and years and is typically found on specific packages or older builds.
How to confirm your exact axle
To determine the precise rear axle on your F-250, use these identification steps. The following checks will help you verify the axle model and gearing without relying on memory.
- Inspect the differential cover for a model or code stamped on it. Some covers display the axle family (for example, indicating a 9.75‑inch unit).
- Check the axle tag or stamping on the rear axle tube or differential housing for a model/ratio code. You may need to rotate the wheel and look at the underside or sticker on the axle.
- Consult the door‑jamb or glovebox build sticker, which can include an axle code or drivetrain option that corresponds to a specific rear axle.
- If you still aren’t certain, pull the VIN and run a Ford or dealer VIN decode or check the official build sheet (often accessible via Ford’s owner portal or a dealership) to confirm the axle family and final gearing.
Knowing the exact axle helps with maintenance, parts compatibility, and towing calculations. If you’re unsure after these checks, a quick consult with a Ford dealer or a trusted service manual can confirm the precise specification for your truck.
What this means for owners
For most F-250 owners, the most relevant takeaway is that the truck uses a sturdy solid rear axle designed for heavy duty use. While the 9.75‑inch rear axle is the standard in many models, certain configurations may employ a Dana 60 or other variants. Identifying your exact axle ensures you order the correct parts, set proper gear ratios for towing, and understand service intervals.
Summary
In short, the Ford F-250’s rear axle is almost always a solid, live axle with leaf springs. The common, widely used option is the Ford 9.75-inch rear axle, while some special configurations may use a Dana/Spicer 60. To verify your truck’s exact axle, check the differential cover, axle stamping, or VIN/build sheet. This identification helps with maintenance, repairs, and towing planning.
