What years did Ford use Dana 60?
The Dana 60 axle is a heavy-duty axle that has been a staple in the automotive world for decades, particularly in trucks and off-road vehicles. Ford, known for its robust and reliable trucks, has utilized the Dana 60 axle in various models over the years. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Ford’s use of the Dana 60 axle and the specific years it was implemented in their vehicles.
What Is the Dana 60 Axle?
The Dana 60 is a full-floating or semi-floating axle manufactured by Dana Incorporated. It is renowned for its strength and durability, making it a popular choice for heavy-duty applications. The axle is commonly found in trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles that require high load capacities and rugged performance.
Ford’s Use of the Dana 60 Axle
Ford began using the Dana 60 axle in the late 1950s and has continued to incorporate it into various models over the decades. Below is a breakdown of the key years and models where the Dana 60 axle was prominently featured:
- 1950s-1960s: The Dana 60 was first introduced in Ford’s heavy-duty trucks, such as the F-250 and F-350 models, during the late 1950s and early 1960s. These early versions were designed to handle the increased demands of towing and hauling.
- 1970s: Throughout the 1970s, Ford continued to use the Dana 60 in its F-Series trucks, particularly in 4x4 models. The axle was a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts and those needing reliable performance in rugged conditions.
- 1980s-1990s: The Dana 60 remained a staple in Ford’s Super Duty lineup, including the F-250 and F-350 models. During this period, the axle was often paired with powerful engines and advanced suspension systems to meet the needs of commercial and recreational users.
- 2000s-Present: Ford continues to use the Dana 60 axle in its Super Duty trucks, particularly in the F-250 and F-350 models. Modern versions of the Dana 60 have been updated with advanced materials and engineering to handle even greater loads and provide improved performance.
Why Did Ford Choose the Dana 60?
Ford’s decision to use the Dana 60 axle is rooted in its reputation for strength, reliability, and versatility. The axle’s ability to handle heavy loads and withstand extreme conditions made it an ideal choice for Ford’s trucks, which are often used for towing, hauling, and off-road adventures. Additionally, the Dana 60’s modular design allows for easy customization and upgrades, further enhancing its appeal to both manufacturers and consumers.
Conclusion
The Dana 60 axle has been a key component in Ford’s lineup of trucks for decades, starting in the late 1950s and continuing to the present day. Its unmatched durability and performance have made it a favorite among truck enthusiasts and a reliable choice for heavy-duty applications. Whether you’re driving a classic F-Series truck or a modern Super Duty model, the Dana 60 axle is a testament to Ford’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the strongest rear end?
What Makes the 9-inch Ford Rearend So Great? From the archives: Legendary tech guru Marlan Davis explains why the 9-inch Ford is the strongest rearend out there—it's all due to “hypoid distance.”
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 Fords came with the Dana 60?
Ford used Dana Super 60 Front Driving Axles in 2005-2016 F250, F350, F450, and F550 Super Duty 4x4 trucks.
When did Ford stop using the Dana 50?
2003
Bolted under the front of the Super Duty well into the middle of 2002, and equipped on most 4x4 Ford Excursions, the Dana 50 front axle was a carry-over axle that Ford finally phased out officially by the end of 2003.
What years did Dodge use Dana 60?
1994-2002 Dodge Dana 60 Identification. For the 1994-2002 model years, Dodge only used Dana 60 full-floating rear axles in most Ram 2500 trucks with gasoline V6 or V8 engines. The exception is 1994-1998 Light-duty Ram 2500 trucks which used Chrysler 9-1/4" semi-float rear axles.
How do I identify my Ford Dana 60?
The way the four drum backing plate bolts are arranged will tell you whether your Dana 60 axle came from a Dodge or a Ford.
- Are the 4 bolts arranged in a perfect square pattern? It's a Dodge Dana 60.
- Are the 4 bolts in a slightly rectangular pattern? It's a Ford Dana 60.
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).
Is a Ford Dana 60 the same as a Chevy Dana 60?
There are three major variations of the Dana 60 axle used in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s: Dana 60 axles on the GMC, Chevy, and Jeep are all basically the same. Dodge and Ford Dana 60 axles are different.
When did Ford start using Dana axles?
The solid axle Dana 50 was used in the Ford F-250 and the F-350 from 1999 to 2003.
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.
