When did Dodge stop using Dana axles?
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and durable vehicles, many of which have been equipped with Dana axles. These axles are renowned for their strength and performance, making them a popular choice for trucks and heavy-duty vehicles. However, over the years, Dodge has transitioned to using other axle manufacturers for various reasons, including cost, performance, and evolving vehicle designs. In this article, we’ll explore the timeline and reasons behind Dodge’s shift away from Dana axles.
The History of Dana Axles in Dodge Vehicles
Dana axles have been a staple in Dodge trucks for decades. Known for their rugged construction and ability to handle heavy loads, Dana axles were commonly found in Dodge Ram trucks and other heavy-duty models. These axles were particularly popular in the 1980s and 1990s, when Dodge trucks were marketed as tough, reliable workhorses.
During this period, Dana axles, such as the Dana 44 and Dana 60, were used extensively in Dodge’s lineup. These axles provided the durability and performance needed for off-road and towing applications, making them a favorite among truck enthusiasts and professionals alike.
When Did Dodge Transition Away from Dana Axles?
The transition away from Dana axles began in the early 2000s. By this time, Dodge (under the Chrysler umbrella) started exploring other axle suppliers to meet changing market demands and cost considerations. While Dana axles continued to be used in some models, Dodge gradually introduced axles from other manufacturers, such as AAM (American Axle & Manufacturing).
One of the key milestones in this transition occurred in 2003, when Dodge introduced the third-generation Ram trucks. These trucks featured axles from AAM, signaling a shift in Dodge’s approach to axle sourcing. By the mid-2000s, most Dodge trucks had fully transitioned to AAM axles, although Dana axles were still used in certain specialized applications for a few more years.
Why Did Dodge Move Away from Dana Axles?
Several factors contributed to Dodge’s decision to move away from Dana axles:
- Cost Efficiency: AAM offered competitive pricing, which allowed Dodge to reduce production costs without compromising on quality.
- Customization: AAM provided axles that were specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of Dodge’s vehicle lineup, including improved fuel efficiency and performance.
- Consolidation: By partnering with AAM, Dodge was able to streamline its supply chain and simplify manufacturing processes.
Conclusion
While Dana axles played a significant role in Dodge’s history, the transition to AAM axles marked a new chapter for the brand. Today, Dodge trucks continue to deliver exceptional performance and reliability, thanks to advancements in axle technology and design. For enthusiasts and collectors, vehicles equipped with Dana axles remain a testament to Dodge’s legacy of building tough, dependable trucks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ram use Dana axles?
In addition to axles, Dana supplies cylinder head gaskets for the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX. Dana is a world leader in providing power-conveyance and energy-management solutions that are engineered to improve the efficiency, performance, and sustainability of light vehicles, commercial vehicles, and off-highway equipment.
What axles are in a 2014 Ram 2500?
Effective with the 2014 model year, Ram 2500 3/4 ton trucks use a coil spring AAM 1150 11-1/2" Ring Gear rear axle.
When did Dodge stop using the 5.9 Cummins?
The Dodge Cummins 5.9L was used from 1988 to 2007 in Dodge vehicles, before moving to the similar Dodge Cummins 6.7L. Cummins engines are also found in many medium and heavy-duty trucks, boats, machinery, generators, and a wide variety of other applications.
Do I have a Dana 70 or 80?
A Dana 80 has a ring gear diameter of 11.25 inches, the Dana 70 measures 10.50, and the 14-bolt measures 10.25. Why is ring gear diameter important? The larger the ring gear, the greater the contact area or engagement between the ring and the pinion and therefore the greater the torque capacity of the axle.
How do I know if I have a Dana 44 or Dana 60?
Measure Your Axle
Although the Dana 44 and Dana 60 differential covers look similar, their sizes are significantly different. The Dana 44 differential cover will measure about 9 1/2 inches wide and 10 1/2 inches tall, while the Dana 60 differential cover will measure about 11 1/4 inches wide and 12 inches tall.
Is a Dana 70 better than a Dana 60?
While a . 2″ difference in diameter between the Dana 60 and the Dana 70 doesn't seem like it would matter much, it matters a great deal. The torque rating for a stock Dana 70 axle shaft is 8966 ft/lbs, which is almost 50% stronger than the stock Dana 60 axle shaft, which has a rating of 6044 ft/lbs.
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.
What vehicles came with a Dana 60 rear end?
The Dana/Spicer Model 60 is an automotive axle manufactured by Dana Holding Corporation and used in OEM pickup and limited passenger car applications by Chevrolet, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ford and Land Rover.
What is the difference between a Dodge Dana 44 and Dana 60?
The Dana 44 is also a heavy axle, but it's significantly lighter than a Dana 60. The ring gear on the Dana 44 measures anywhere from 8.5 to 8.8 inches depending on the truck. The Dana 60, however, has a massive 9.75-inch ring gear no matter what truck it came out of.
What trucks have Dana 44 axles?
- 1967–1973 Jeepster Commando and Commando.
- 1974–1991 Wagoneer (Passenger side 1974–1979, Driver side 1980–1991)
- 1974–1983 SJ.
- Late 1986 CJ-7.
- 2003–2006 TJ Wrangler Rubicon (Front and rear)
- 2007-2018 JK Wrangler Rubicon (Front and rear)
- 2018-2019 JL Wrangler Rubicon (Front and rear)
- 2020 JT Gladiator (Front and rear)
