ford dana 60

[TKentch]

i have a busted front axle on a '96 dodge and was told to swap it out for ford instead of the dodge with the cheap inter-axle disconnect.

what year range of ford front axles are best to use?

kingpin vs ball-joint,

reverse cut vs standard,

hi pinion vs standard,

thanx,

tyler

 

[FordCummins]

Any of the 86-97 F350 front axles will work. They switched to balljoints in 92. Most will argue that kingpins are stronger, but ive never had any real problems with the balljoint versions. You also get the benefit of servicable wheels bearings, instead of unit bearing assemblies. The only drawback is gonna be making it work with the coil spring front end on the Dodge versus the leaf springs on the Ford. All Ford D60 fronts were hi pinion. If it were me, I wouldnt be picky about kingpin vs. BJ axles. Ive run both, and never had any problems with either setup beyond normal wear and tear.

 

[mgoncalves]

If it were me I'd look for an axle from an 02 that didn't have the disconnect, that way it will bolt right up.

 

[MMcCallie]

Kingpin Dana 60s are most people's favorite, but the ball joints are still very reliable. You know when ball joints are going out, they give you time to fix the problem. Ball joints are harder to repair and have a shorter lifespan so they can cost more in the long run.



The best axle is the new Super 60 under Ford trucks with coil springs. You'll probably have to shell about $6,000 for one. Second best is the 2005 up Ford Dana 60s. Then it is a matter of preference and availability when choosing between '99-2004 front axles and kingpin axles.



You would have to cut off the brackets from the Dodge axle and weld them on to the Ford. I have a 2000 Dana 50 in Boston that can be had for cheap. Dana 50 and 60 axles have many interchangeable parts. The biggest gripe on newer Ford axles is the hub assembly. Dynatrac offers a kit that makes these axles more reliable and cheaper for future repairs.