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What rear axle does the Ford Excursion have?

The Ford Excursion uses a heavy-duty Sterling 10.5-inch rear axle, a standard feature of Ford’s F-250/350 Super Duty lineage from the early 2000s. This axle is the defining rear-drive component that supported the Excursion’s towing and payload capabilities throughout its production years (2000–2005).


Rear-axle basics and where it fits


Built on the same heavy-duty underpinnings as Ford’s F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks, the Excursion shares the Sterling 10.5-inch rear axle family. The axle is part of a robust drivetrain designed for heavy hauling and substantial passenger capacity, and it appears in both 4x4 and 4x2 configurations. Depending on model year and option package, Ford offered differential types that could include a factory locking differential or a limited-slip unit.


The following key details help capture the scope of the Excursion’s rear axle configuration:



  • Rear axle type: Sterling 10.5-inch ring-gear differential

  • Drivetrain applications: Present in both 4x4 and 4x2 Excursions, aligned with the heavy-duty platform

  • Differential options: Availability of locking or limited-slip differentials depending on trim and year

  • Gear ratios: Common options included around 3.73 and 4.10, with exact ratio varying by year and tow package; verify using the axle code on the differential or door sticker


In summary, the Excursion’s rear axle is a robust Sterling 10.5" unit shared with Ford’s Super Duty lineup, reflecting the vehicle’s purpose-built role as a large, tow-rated SUV.


Notes by model year and verification tips


Across the 2000–2005 production span, Ford largely kept the Sterling 10.5" axle in use for the Excursion. If you’re inspecting a specific vehicle, the exact gearing and differential type can be confirmed by checking the axle tag on the differential or the door jamb sticker, which lists the axle ratio and diff configuration.


Summary


The Ford Excursion’s rear axle is the Sterling 10.5-inch differential, part of Ford’s early 2000s Super Duty platform. This setup provided the strength needed for heavy towing and large passenger capacity, with tire options and gear ratios varying by year and package. For exact specifications on a given vehicle, consult the axle code or VIN-derived data.

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Kevin Bennett

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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.