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When did Ford change from 8X6 5?

Ford, the renowned American automaker, made a significant change in its axle configuration for some of its truck models, transitioning from an 8x6 to a 6x6 setup. This change occurred in the late 1990s, as Ford sought to improve the performance and capabilities of its heavy-duty vehicles.


The Shift from 8x6 to 6x6 Axles


Prior to the late 1990s, Ford's heavy-duty truck models, such as the F-250 and F-350, were equipped with an 8x6 axle configuration. This meant that the trucks had eight wheels, with six of them being driven by the powertrain. The 8x6 setup provided increased traction and load-carrying capacity, making it a popular choice for applications like construction, agriculture, and off-road use.


However, in the late 1990s, Ford made the decision to transition to a 6x6 axle configuration for some of its heavy-duty truck models. The 6x6 setup, which features six wheels with all six being driven, offered several advantages over the previous 8x6 design. These advantages included improved maneuverability, better fuel efficiency, and reduced maintenance requirements, as the 6x6 configuration had fewer moving parts and components.


Reasons for the Change


The primary reasons behind Ford's decision to change from 8x6 to 6x6 axles were:



  • Improved Maneuverability: The 6x6 configuration allowed for tighter turning radii and better overall handling, particularly in off-road and tight-space situations.

  • Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: The reduced number of driven wheels in the 6x6 setup resulted in lower rolling resistance and improved fuel economy, which was an important consideration for customers.

  • Reduced Maintenance Costs: With fewer moving parts and components, the 6x6 axle configuration required less maintenance and repair work, leading to lower operating costs for owners.


These factors, combined with the continued demand for capable and versatile heavy-duty trucks, led Ford to make the transition to the 6x6 axle setup in the late 1990s.


Impact on Ford's Truck Lineup


The change from 8x6 to 6x6 axles had a significant impact on Ford's heavy-duty truck lineup. Models like the F-250 and F-350 were updated to feature the new 6x6 configuration, providing customers with a more maneuverable, fuel-efficient, and cost-effective option for their heavy-duty transportation needs.


The transition to 6x6 axles also allowed Ford to better compete with other manufacturers in the heavy-duty truck market, as the improved performance and efficiency of the 6x6 setup helped to differentiate Ford's offerings and appeal to a wider range of customers.

Did Ford ever use the 8X6 5 bolt pattern?


Till the late SD Fords they all used 8x6. 5". The difference was ford and dodge used a larger center hole than Chevy. So a doge or ford wheel would fit a GM not not the other way.



When did GM go from 8X6.5 to 8x180?


2011 was a year of change for both the GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 and also the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500. Switching from the long standing 8x6.



What trucks have an 8X6.5 bolt pattern?


Bolt Pattern Chart

TRUCKYEARBOLT CIRCLE
Dodge Ram 3/4-ton14-Current8X6.5
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)69-938X6.5
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)94-118X6.5
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)12-188X6.5



What is the bolt pattern on a 1997 Ford F350?


5 (8x165. 1) bolt pattern, BB Wheels offers a wide selection of 1983 - 1997 Ford F-350 rims.



What is the old Ford bolt pattern?


Also remember that the 5×5-1/2-inch pattern was common for early Fords, ranging from 1928 to 1948, with the exception of “wide 5” hubs, which were only available from 1936 to 1939. Wide 5 wheels are very easy to identify, because of the extremely large five lug bolt pattern–5×10-1/4 inches to be exact.



When did Ford use 8x170 bolt pattern?


1999
If you have a Ford F250 or F350 from 1999 onward, your wheels will most likely be drilled in the 8x170 bolt pattern. Wheel sizes for these trucks come in a wide range, with 16” to 24” sizes being the most common.



What trucks have an 8x180 bolt pattern?


This bolt pattern is commonly used for the GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500, as well as the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500. In 2011, the old bolt pattern (8x6. 5) was switched out for the 8x180 bolt pattern.



Is 8x6.5 the same as 8x165-1?


This bolt pattern is known by two different numbers, but there is no real difference between the fitments except that one is written in inches and the other in millimeters. Our selection for the 8x6. 5 bolt pattern includes several finishes, colors, and styles of wheels to customize your vehicle.



When did Ford go from 8X6.5 to 8x170?


Ford changed to 8x170 in 99 for the introduction of the Super Duty bodystyle.



When did Ford switch from 8X6 5?


5 hole to 8 x 170 hole pattern. The bolt pattern changed when Ford introduced the "Super Duty" line of trucks for the 1999 model year.


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.