What rear axle is in a F-450?
The rear axle in a Ford F-450 is a heavy-duty unit, and the exact specification depends on year and configuration. In most modern F-450 Super Duty trucks, Ford uses a strong Dana/Spicer 11.5-inch rear axle; older generations sometimes used a Dana 80 or Ford Sterling 10.5-inch rear axle depending on the model and market.
Below is a detailed look at how the rear-axle configuration has varied over time and how you can identify the specific axle on your truck. This information helps with maintenance, parts compatibility, and repairs.
Typical rear-axle configurations by era
Before listing the common configurations, note that exact axles can vary by cab/bed, drivetrain, and market. The following summarizes what most F-450s have used in different periods.
- 2017–present: Most F-450 Super Duty models use a heavy-duty Dana/Spicer 11.5-inch rear axle, paired with other robust components to handle high payload and towing demands.
- Late 1990s to mid-2000s: Some F-450s employed larger rear axles such as the Dana 80 or Ford Sterling 10.5-inch units, depending on the specific build and market.
These general patterns help with sourcing parts and planning maintenance, but the exact axle on any given truck should be verified for certainty.
How to identify your exact rear axle
Use these steps to confirm the axle model and gear ratio on your F-450, especially if you’re shopping for parts or performing a repair.
- Check the axle tag on the differential or the stamped markings on the differential cover for a model number and gear ratio.
- Inspect the axle housing itself for numbers that indicate the ring-gear size (for example, references to 11.5" vs 10.5" ring gear or a specific Dana/Sterling designation).
- Consult the vehicle’s VIN/build sheet or Ford’s online VIN decoder to map the exact axle option installed at factory.
If you’re unsure after checking the tag and VIN, a Ford dealer or experienced heavy-duty shop can read the axle code and confirm the exact assembly.
Why it matters
The rear-axle choice influences gear ratios, payload handling, towing performance, and parts availability. Knowing whether your F-450 uses an 11.5-inch Dana/Spicer, a Dana 80, or a Sterling 10.5-inch axle helps you source the correct ring-and-pinion gears, differential parts, seals, and replacement housings.
Summary
In short, the Ford F-450’s rear axle is a heavy-duty, model-year-dependent component. Modern F-450s most commonly use an 11.5-inch Dana/Spicer rear axle, while older models may have used Dana 80 or Sterling 10.5-inch assemblies. To be sure, check the axle tag, refer to the build sheet or VIN, and consult a qualified technician for part compatibility and replacement work.
What Ford trucks have Dana 60 rear axles?
- 1974–1979 F-250 (optional)
- 1999–2011 F-250 (optional)
- 1979, 1986-2011 F-350 (optional)
- 2000–2004 F-450/F-550.
- 2011-2016 F-250/F-350.
- 2017-2024 F-250/F-350.
What trucks have a Dana 80 rear axle?
Common applications
- 1988-1998 F-350 DRW (Select chassis cabs and pick ups)
- 1999-2016 F-350 DRW.
- 1988-2004 F-450.
- 2011-2014 F-450 (13,050 GVW)
What is the difference between F-350 and F-450 axles?
The F-350 can handle 5,600 pounds on the front axle and 10,300 pounds on the rear. For the F-450, things get interesting. It can handle 6,000 pounds on the front axle and 9,900 pounds on the rear for a more balanced axle rating.
How do you tell if you have a 7.5 or 8.8 rear end?
When measuring from the top left bolt to the bottom right bolt, the 8.8” rear end will measure 11” from bolt to bolt. The 7.5” rear end is also flat on top and bottom. However, the visual difference comes in where it is rounded on the right and left and, like the 8.8” rear, has ten bolts.
