WOD Early Ford Dana 60 Front Axle Truss
WF03017
The WOD Early Ford Dana 60 Front Axle Truss is a weld-on reinforcement designed to increase housing rigidity and reduce axle tube deflection in demanding off-road and high-torque applications. Precision cut from 1/4" steel plate, the truss is contoured to fit tightly against the differential housing for increased weld contact and improved structural support.
Extending across most of the long-side axle tube, this truss helps distribute suspension, steering, and drivetrain loads across a larger portion of the housing. It is a strong foundation for rock crawlers, trail rigs, solid axle swaps, and custom Ford Dana 60 builds where axle strength and long-term durability are priorities.
Includes:
- (1) WOD Early Ford Dana 60 Front Axle Truss
Note: Welding and custom fabrication are required.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Wide Open Design |
| Product Type | Weld-On Front Axle Truss |
| Axle Application | Early Ford Dana 60 Front Axle |
| Material | 1/4" Steel Plate |
| Overall Width | 38.625" |
| Overall Height | 6.75" |
| Overall Depth | 2.5" |
| Design | Precision Cut and Contoured for Differential Housing Fit |
| Installation | Weld-On |
| Condition | Weld-Ready |
| Country of Origin | Made in the USA |
Fitment
| Make | Model | Year Range | Axle Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford | F-250 | 1978–1997 | Early Ford Dana 60 Front Axle |
| Ford | F-350 | 1978–1997 | Early Ford Dana 60 Front Axle |
| Ford | Bronco | 1978–1996 | Early Ford Dana 60 Front Axle |
Fitment Notes:
- Designed for early Ford Dana 60 front axle applications.
- Intended for custom fabrication, off-road, and solid axle swap applications.
- Verify axle model, housing width, tube diameter, differential position, and steering configuration before installation.
- Vehicle model and year alone do not confirm axle compatibility.
- Welding is required.
- Final trimming or fitting may be required depending on axle modifications and surrounding suspension components.
Tech Insight
Why truss a Dana 60 front axle?
Front axle housings are exposed to bending, torsional, steering, and suspension loads. Large tires, hydraulic steering, hard landings, and high-torque drivetrains can increase housing flex and place additional stress on the axle tubes and differential center section.
How does the truss strengthen the housing?
The truss ties the differential housing and long-side axle tube together across a larger structural area. This helps distribute load more evenly and reduces the concentration of stress at the tube-to-housing connection.
Why does the truss extend across the long-side tube?
The long-side tube is more susceptible to bending because of its unsupported length. Extending the truss across most of this section helps reduce tube deflection and improves overall housing rigidity.
Can an axle truss prevent tube rotation?
A properly fitted and welded truss can help reduce movement between the axle tubes and center housing. Correct weld preparation and controlled welding technique are still critical to avoid distortion and create a strong connection.
Should the axle be checked during installation?
Yes. The housing should be inspected for existing bends, tube movement, and alignment before welding. The truss should be tack welded gradually, and the axle should be monitored during final welding to reduce the risk of heat-related warping.
