What trucks come with a Dana 60?
The Dana 60 is a heavy‑duty axle used in many 3/4‑ton and 1‑ton pickups. In modern production, it’s most often found as the front axle on Ford, Ram, and GM heavy‑duty trucks, particularly in 4x4 configurations, though availability varies by year and trim. Always verify the exact axle specification on a given build sheet.
Ford F-Series Super Duty
The Dana 60 has long been associated with Ford’s 3/4‑ and 1‑ton pickups, especially for 4x4 models designed for heavy payloads and rugged use.
Typical configurations
- F‑250 Super Duty: front Dana 60 on many 4x4 trims
- F‑350 Super Duty: front Dana 60 on many 4x4 trims
Note: Some trims or markets may use alternate front axles; always confirm the exact specification for a given year and model.
Ram Heavy Duty (2500/3500)
Ram’s 2500 and 3500 heavy‑duty pickups have frequently paired the front Dana 60 axle with four‑wheel drive to support substantial payloads and towing capability.
Typical configurations
- Ram 2500: front Dana 60 on many 4x4 configurations
- Ram 3500: front Dana 60 on many 4x4 configurations
As with Ford, some trims or model years may use different front axles; check the official build sheet for the exact configuration.
GM Silverado/Sierra Heavy-Duty (2500/3500)
GM’s heavy‑duty pickups—the Silverado HD and Sierra HD—have also widely used the Dana 60 front axle across many 4x4 variants to handle heavy payloads and demanding terrain.
Typical configurations
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD: front Dana 60 on many 4x4 configurations
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD: front Dana 60 on many 4x4 configurations
- GMC Sierra 2500HD: front Dana 60 on many 4x4 configurations
- GMC Sierra 3500HD: front Dana 60 on many 4x4 configurations
Again, verify the exact axle on the chosen model, year, and trim since variations exist between generations.
Summary
In today’s market, the Dana 60 is most commonly found as the front axle on Ford F‑Series Super Duty, Ram 2500/3500, and GM Silverado/Sierra HD 2500/3500 pickups, especially in 4x4 configurations. While these families cover the bulk of factory Dana 60 usage, axle choices can vary by year, trim, and market. When evaluating a specific truck, consult the dealer or inspect the VIN/build sheet to confirm the exact axle specification.
Is a Dana 60 a 1-ton axle?
Yes, a Dana 60 is considered a 1-ton axle, particularly when it is the front axle found in 1-ton trucks. However, a Dana 60 rear axle is typically rated as a 3/4-ton axle, and while the Dana 60 is a heavy-duty axle, the 1-ton designation is specific to its application in 1-ton trucks.
You can watch this video to learn more about the differences between 1-ton axles and other types: 1mJK Gear and GadgetsYouTube · Jul 12, 2024
- Front axles: The Dana 60 front axle is the most common 1-ton axle found in 1-ton trucks and is also very popular for swaps into other vehicles because of its strength.
- Rear axles: A Dana 60 rear axle is generally rated as a 3/4-ton axle.
- Heavy-duty components: The 1-ton Dana 60 features larger components than its 1/2-ton counterparts, including a larger ring and pinion, axle shafts, and a stronger housing, which makes it more durable for heavy loads and large tires.
- Usage: While Dana 60s were originally used in 1-ton trucks, they have become a popular upgrade for off-roading enthusiasts due to their strength and durability.
What Fords came with the Dana 60?
Ford Dana 60 Tech
| Application | Pros |
|---|---|
| '92-98 F350 | The wider year range makes these a lot easier to source than the '77.5-79 version. 8 x 6.5" Lug nut pattern (same as older GM and Dodge). |
| '99-04 F250 and F350 | - |
| '05+ F250 and F350 | - |
How do I know if I have a Dana 60?
Many Dana axles have the model ID cast into the fins or centersection. Look for a "44" or "60" cast into the reinforcement ribs. The number can usually be found on the lower right side rib below the differential cover, but it may also be found on other ribs or on top of the main cast structure.
What trucks have Dana 60 axles?
- 1964–1977 Chevrolet and GMC 3/4-ton pickups.
- 1975–1987 Chevrolet and GMC 1-ton pickups and Suburbans.
- 1979–2012 Chevrolet and GMC 1-ton vans.
- 2002–2005 Chevrolet and GMC 1/2 + 3/4 Ton pickups and Suburbans with Quadrasteer.
