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What year Fords have a Dana 60 front axle?

The Dana 60 front axle is a heavy-duty axle commonly found in Ford trucks and SUVs. While the Dana 60 has been used in various Ford models over the years, the specific years when it was installed can vary depending on the vehicle.


Ford Trucks with Dana 60 Front Axles


The Dana 60 front axle has been a popular choice for Ford's heavy-duty trucks, particularly in the F-250 and F-350 models. According to the information gathered, the Dana 60 front axle was commonly used in the following Ford truck models and years,,,,,:



  • Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks (1999-2016)

  • Ford Excursion SUV (2000-2005)

  • Ford Bronco (1978-1996)


It's important to note that the specific years and models may vary, as Ford has made changes to their axle configurations over time. Additionally, some aftermarket modifications or custom builds may also feature the Dana 60 front axle in other Ford models or years.


Identifying a Dana 60 Front Axle


If you're unsure whether a Ford vehicle has a Dana 60 front axle, there are a few ways to identify it:



  • Look for the "Dana 60" or "D60" markings on the axle housing.

  • Check the axle housing diameter, which is typically around 9 inches for a Dana 60.

  • Consult the vehicle's service manual or speak with a qualified mechanic for more information.


Knowing the specific years and models that feature the Dana 60 front axle can be helpful when researching, purchasing, or maintaining a Ford vehicle.

Is a Dana 60 better than a Dana 44?


Adding more unsprung weight to your rig will make it handle worse on and off the road. If that's something you don't care about then the Dana 60 is a clear choice. For those of us who care about on-road handling, the Dana 44 could be a better option. Especially if you don't need all that extra strength.



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.



How big of tires can a Dana 60 handle?


A modern Dana 60 front axle comes stuffed with much stronger 1.5-inch-diameter, 35-spline axleshafts (center), which can safely handle 37-to-44-inch tires.



What vehicles have a Dana 60 front axle?


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.



Are Ford and Dodge Dana 60 the same?


Dodge Dana 60s have an axle disconnect, which is considered a weaker and more complex axleshaft design. The split in the housing to accommodate the axle disconnect assembly is also considered weaker than the traditional one-piece axletube found on modern Ford Dana 60 axles.



How do I tell 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.



What years did Ford use the Dana 60 front axle?


DANA 60 FRONT - FORD 1975 to 2004.



What Fords came with the Dana 60?


  • 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.



How to identify Ford Dana 60 front axle?


The Dana Axle Bill of Material Number will tell us what your axle model is, the ratio, and what parts your particular axle was built with. There should be a metal Dana BOM Tag held on by two of the diff cover bolts. There should also be a white Ford assembly decal on the right axle beam.



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).


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

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.