What vehicles came with a Dana 60 front axle?
The Dana 60 front axle is a highly sought-after component in the automotive world, known for its strength, durability, and ability to handle heavy-duty applications. This axle has been used in a variety of vehicles, particularly trucks and SUVs, to support off-road performance and heavy towing capacities. Below, we’ll explore the vehicles that came equipped with the Dana 60 front axle and why it remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike.
What Makes the Dana 60 Front Axle Special?
The Dana 60 front axle is renowned for its robust design and ability to handle extreme conditions. It features a high-strength housing, large ring gear, and heavy-duty components, making it ideal for vehicles that require superior off-road capability or heavy-duty performance. Its versatility has made it a staple in both factory-installed applications and aftermarket upgrades.
Vehicles Equipped with the Dana 60 Front Axle
The Dana 60 front axle has been used in a variety of vehicles over the years, primarily in heavy-duty trucks and off-road vehicles. Below is a list of some of the most notable vehicles that came with this axle:
- Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500: Many Dodge Ram heavy-duty trucks, particularly models from the 1990s to the present, were equipped with the Dana 60 front axle to handle their towing and payload capacities.
- Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty: Ford’s Super Duty trucks have frequently utilized the Dana 60 front axle, especially in 4x4 configurations, to provide durability and strength for work and off-road use.
- Chevrolet and GMC 2500HD and 3500HD: Some older models of GM heavy-duty trucks also featured the Dana 60 front axle, particularly in 4x4 setups.
- Jeep J-Series Trucks: Jeep’s full-size trucks, such as the J10 and J20, often came with the Dana 60 front axle in certain configurations, making them capable off-roaders.
- International Harvester Vehicles: Some International Harvester trucks and SUVs, like the Scout and Travelall, were equipped with the Dana 60 front axle for their rugged performance.
These vehicles were designed to handle demanding tasks, and the Dana 60 front axle played a crucial role in ensuring their reliability and performance. Its use in these models highlights its reputation as a go-to choice for heavy-duty applications.
Why the Dana 60 Front Axle Remains Popular
Even decades after its introduction, the Dana 60 front axle continues to be a favorite among off-road enthusiasts and those who require heavy-duty performance. Here are some reasons why:
- Strength and Durability: The Dana 60 is built to withstand extreme conditions, making it ideal for off-road adventures and heavy towing.
- Aftermarket Support: A wide range of aftermarket parts and upgrades are available for the Dana 60, allowing owners to customize and enhance its performance.
- Versatility: The axle can be adapted to a variety of vehicles, making it a popular choice for custom builds and restorations.
- Proven Track Record: Decades of use in demanding applications have cemented the Dana 60’s reputation as a reliable and capable axle.
Whether you’re restoring a classic truck, building an off-road rig, or simply looking for a reliable axle for heavy-duty use, the Dana 60 front axle remains a top choice for its unmatched performance and reliability.
Conclusion
The Dana 60 front axle has earned its place as a legendary component in the automotive world. From factory-installed applications in heavy-duty trucks to custom off-road builds, its strength, durability, and versatility make it a standout choice. If you’re considering a vehicle with a Dana 60 or planning an upgrade, you can rest assured that this axle will deliver the performance and reliability you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year Fords have a Dana 60 front axle?
Ford uses Dana Super 60 Front Driving Axles in 2005 and newer F250, F350, F450, and F550 Super Duty 4x4 trucks. Each axle is built with a Bill of Material (BOM) Tag affixed to the differential cover by two cover bolts.
What came with a Dana 60?
Dana 60 axles generally come with 1-ton brakes, which should meet the stopping demands of most lifted 4x4s. Ford Super Duty axles have a metric 8-on-170mm wheel-lug pattern, but they can be converted to 8-on-6.5-, 5-on-5.5-, or 6-on-5.5-inch patterns.
Is a Dana 60 stronger than a Ford 9 inch?
The Ford 9-inch pinion is mounted lower in the carrier and has the greatest hypoid offset, which causes it to consume more power to drive it than the Dana 60 or GM 12-bolt. The Dana 60 has so much mass it too consumes a lot of power to drive (although many say it feels slightly less than a 9-inch Ford).
What years did Chevy use Dana 60?
- 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.
What vehicles have Dana 60 front axles?
The Dana 60, a heavier-duty axle than the Dana 44, was first used in the 1950s. It was the axle of choice under countless Dodge, Ford, GM, Studebaker, IH and Jeep 3/4-ton and 1-ton fullsize trucks, as well as Ramchargers and Trail Dusters with the 440ci V-8, and some heavy-duty 1/2-ton Ford and IH trucks.
How do I know if I have a Dana 60 front axle?
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.
