What rear axle does a F250 have?
The Ford F-250 Super Duty uses a solid rear axle (a live axle); the exact axle model varies by year and configuration, but most modern examples rely on a heavy-duty, axle-segment design with a 10.5-inch or 11.5-inch ring gear and a brand such as Dana/Spicer or Sterling.
Overview of the F-250 rear-axle design
Clarifying terms: solid vs independent rear suspension
In a solid rear axle, the two rear wheels are connected by a single axle housing that carries the differential and drives both wheels. This is the traditional arrangement on heavy-duty pickups like the F-250, known for durability and payload capacity. By contrast, independent rear suspension separates the wheels’ motion, offering a smoother ride but typically not the same level of payload capability.
The F-250’s rear axle is typically mounted to leaf springs (or, in some configurations, multi-link setups in special trims) and is designed to handle high torque and heavy loads. Exact specifications—such as the ring-gear size and the supplier—depend on the model year and build options.
What follows highlights the main variations you might encounter on current and recent F-250 models, along with how to check which one you have.
- 10.5-inch ring-gear rear axle: A common heavy-duty option that provides strong strength while keeping parts readily available for maintenance and upgrades.
- 11.5-inch ring-gear rear axle: Used on higher-capacity configurations, offering greater durability under heavy towing and payload demands.
- Brand and sourcing: Axles are supplied by heavy-duty axle manufacturers such as Dana/Spicer or Sterling; the exact brand can vary by production year and spec.
Understanding these elements helps you identify the axle on your F-250 and plan parts or upgrades accordingly.
How to identify your F-250 rear axle
To confirm the exact rear axle on your truck, use a combination of visual checks, documentation, and cross-referencing with the VIN or build sheet. This ensures you order the correct parts for service or upgrades.
- Inspect the differential cover and housing for markings that indicate the ring-gear size (for example, 10.5" or 11.5") or model numbers.
- Look for branding on the axle itself or the differential cover (such as Dana/Spicer or Sterling) that identifies the supplier.
- Consult the vehicle’s VIN decoder, window sticker, or the official build sheet to confirm axle size and ratio.
- If possible, measure the internal ring-gear diameter or compare with known reference sizes to differentiate 10.5" from 11.5".
With these steps, you can accurately determine the rear-axle configuration and ensure correct parts compatibility.
Summary
The F-250 Super Duty is built with a solid rear axle designed for durability and payload. The exact rear-axle size and supplier vary by model year and configuration, but common ring-gear sizes include 10.5" and 11.5". Brands such as Dana/Spicer and Sterling are typically involved in these axles. To know your precise setup, check the axle code on the differential, review the VIN/build sheet, or consult the vehicle documentation.
