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Dec 5, 2002 | 12:44 PM

tankhead

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From: Roswell USA

front end diff

I can't seem to verify what type of differential I have on my front axle. I want to see about possibly re-gearing for larger tires and installing a locker in the front, definately getting a Detroit Sof-loc or an Auburn LS for the rear and then covers. I gave the number on the tag to the guy at the parts counter at the dealership, but he doesn't seem to know. From the numbers on the rear tag he identified the rear as a Ford 10.25". He couldn't verify the front though. He said the front will be of the same type (i.e., Ford...). Whatever that meant? He asked for the axle code (31) but I had already determined it was a 3.73 open differential by axle codes from other web-sites. He was kinda short w/ me so I figured it was me not knowing. The front cover clearly has the "<Dana>" stamp on it w/ some other numbers. Anyways the number off the front are "3.73 VF 81A NK" on the top of the tag and "V6 10654-1" on the bottom part of the tag. Thanks in advance for anybodys help!

Dec 5, 2002 | 01:46 PM

Cope

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front end diff

That front axle is a dana 50.
-Cope

97 F-350 PSD ZF 5 Speed 4x4

Dec 5, 2002 | 01:48 PM

MustangGT221

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From: Topsfield, MA

front end diff

I think it's a Dana 50. However, it could be a Dana 60 but those are usually on the F-350s.

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Dec 5, 2002 | 03:41 PM

tankhead

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From: Roswell USA

front end diff

>I think it's a Dana 50. However, it could be a Dana 60 but
>those are usually on the F-350s.
>

I think its a Dana 50 too. If I buy a differentail cover listed as a Dana 60 on the application picture, won't it fit on my Dana 50? Aren't the outer specs the same? 10 bolt holes 12 1/8" wide. Or are they different covers? It seems on the Powertrax differential identification the 50, 60, 70 and 80 all have the 10 bolt 12 1/8" wide. Thanks again for all the help!

Dec 5, 2002 | 05:03 PM

tankhead

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From: Roswell USA

front end diff

I was just reading posts in a different conference on this site from over a year ago where the Dana 50 has the same ring gear diameter, and housing as the Dana 44. whats different is the thickness. The gears in the 50 are thicker than the 44 and the internal parts are stronger. Well the cover for a 60 will definately not fit since its 12 1/8" wide. I just measured my 50 and it measured to about 10 3/8. Kinda hard since I was using a retractable tape measure. But I'm almost sure it will measure out to 10 3/8" wide. So wouldn't a cover for a Dana 44 fit the Dana 50? Thanks!

Dec 5, 2002 | 09:38 PM

steve83

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Joined: Nov 2002

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From: Memphis, TN

front end diff

This is the official Dana axle decoder and will give you the definitive answer:
http://www2.dana.com/Expert/wc.dll?DSD~demenu~DEMENUA~

Here's another useful site:
http://www.visteon.com/technology/automotive/solidindependent_axle_spec.shtml

Dec 6, 2002 | 12:47 PM

tankhead

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Joined: Oct 2002

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From: Roswell USA

front end diff

>This is the official Dana axle decoder and will give you the
>definitive answer:
>

Thanks Steve. That was some useful info! Found it under the Light Axle Librarian. Covers don't seem to be interchangeable. Part #'s are different. Asked around and isn't doable. But, thanks again for the link!!

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Dec 6, 2002 | 03:16 PM

tankhead

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From: Roswell USA

front end diff

>www.offroadunlimited.com] has them, call up the phone # on
>the site. Hope this helps

Thanks! Not too bad ($$). Said he had some at the polishers right now. Need to get one. Now! Ya know I just got intro'd to ORU this week w/ custom fab they do. Was thinking about calling them but didn't think they wouldn't be messing w/ diff covers for the Dana 50. Thanls again for all the help. I just love this site!