The Dana 60 Rear Axle Assembly
Tech info on the Dana 60 Rear Axle Assembly
The Dana 60 rear axle assembly is a heavy-duty axle designed for use in off-road vehicles, such as Jeeps and 4x4s. It features a larger diameter ring gear than other axles, allowing the vehicle to handle higher torque loads. The Dana 60 also has thicker walls and stronger components overall, making it one of the strongest aftermarket differentials available.
Some Specs on the factory setup:
- 8-lug Dana 60
- 9.75" Ring Gear Diameter
- 35 Spline Axle Shafts
- 1.31” – 1.5” Pinion Diameter
- Differential Cover Options
- 6,500 lb. Gross Vehicle Weight
- 5,500 lb-ft output torque rating
What are some Dana 60 rear axle upgrade options
1. High strength alloy axle shafts
2. Differential locker, spool, or limited slip unit
3. Rear steering setup
4. Increased wheel studs and lug nuts with higher torque capacity
5. Axle gusset kit for increased rigidity and strength
6. Full floater axles for ultimate performance off-road application
7. upgraded axle shaft sizes to handle larger wheels/tires
8. Upgradeable brake calipers for improved braking capabilities
What are the benefits of upgrading to 40 spline axle shaft.
Upgrading from a 35 spline axle shaft to a 40 spline axle shaft is one of the best ways to increase strength and durability in your Dana 60 rear axle assembly. The 40-spline axles are made with premium materials that can withstand up to 17,000 pounds of gross vehicle weight without any signs of bending or fatigue. Additionally, the larger diameter and length allow for more torque transfer between the wheel studs and lug nuts which further increases overall strength. Furthermore, the increased number of teeth on the inner side provides greater braking capabilities since there is more surface area for contact with the disc brakes. All these features make it easy to understand why upgrading from a 35-spline axle shaft to a 40-spline axle shaft is an excellent choice when looking for improved performance and durability in your off-road application.
Why upgrade from 3/8" axle tubing thickness to 1/2" tubing thickness
Upgrading from a 3/8" thick axle tube to a 1/2" thick axle tube is a great way to increase strength and endurance in your Dana 60 rear axle assembly. The thicker walled tubing is able to withstand higher torque loads, as well as more wear and tear during off-roading applications. Additionally, the 1/2" axle tube thickness allows for more efficient transfer of power from the engine to the wheels. This increased efficiency allows your vehicle to accelerate faster, which is especially beneficial when driving off-road. Installing a 1/2" thick axle tube is one of the best ways to increase strength and performance in your Dana 60.