ARB Dana 60 / Dana 60HD Air Locker Differential - RD167, 4.10 & Down, 35-Spline
RD167
The ARB RD167 Air Locker Differential is a heavy-duty selectable locking differential designed for compatible Dana 60 and Dana 60HD front and rear axle applications using 35-spline axle shafts and a 4.10-and-down carrier configuration. Built for heavy-duty trucks, rock crawlers, trail rigs, and custom off-road vehicles, this air-operated locker provides fully locked traction on demand. With the flip of a dash-mounted switch, compressed air activates the locking mechanism, forcing both axle shafts to rotate together for maximum available traction through rocks, mud, snow, and challenging terrain.
When activated, its patented locking mechanism provides positive mechanical engagement under demanding drivetrain loads. The high-strength steel carrier, reinforced annular air seal, and heavy-duty internal gear components are engineered for durability in towing, trail riding, and extreme off-road environments. The RD167 is designed for compatible 35-spline Dana 60 applications using 4.10 and numerically lower gear ratio carrier configurations, making it a practical traction upgrade for vehicles that need both predictable on-road operation and dependable off-road capability.
Includes:
- (1) ARB RD167 Dana 60 / Dana 60HD Air Locker Differential Assembly
- (1) Dash-Mounted Activation Switch
- (1) Air Solenoid Valve
- Nylon Air Line
- Bulkhead Fitting
- Installation Hardware
Important: A compatible ARB Air Compressor is required for operation and is sold separately. Verify the installed Dana 60 axle configuration, 35-spline shaft compatibility, and 4.10-and-down carrier requirements before ordering.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | ARB |
|---|---|
| Part Number | RD167 |
| Product Type | Selectable Air Locking Differential |
| Axle Platform | Dana 60 / Dana 60HD |
| Axle Position | Front or Rear - Application Dependent |
| Axle Spline Count | 35-Spline |
| Axle Shaft Diameter | 1.50" |
| Gear Ratio Compatibility | 4.10 & Numerically Lower |
| Carrier Compatibility | 4.10 & Down Dana 60 / 60HD Carrier Applications |
| Axle Design | Compatible Full-Float Applications |
| Differential Operation | Selectable Open / Fully Locked |
| Engagement Type | Pneumatic / Compressed Air |
| Carrier Construction | High-Strength Steel |
| Locking Mechanism | Patented Mechanical Air Locking System |
| Air Seal | Steel-Reinforced Elastomer-Bonded Annular Seal |
| Internal Gear Construction | Forged Alloy Steel Components |
| Material | Steel |
| Finish | Silver |
| Installation Type | Differential Carrier Replacement |
| Primary Application | Dana 60 / 60HD Traction Upgrades for Heavy-Duty Trucks, Rock Crawlers & Off-Road Builds |
| Required Components | Compatible Air Compressor, Air Supply, Differential Bearings & Installation Components |
| Known Incompatibilities | Incorrect Spline Count, Carrier Break or Incompatible Dana 60 Differential Configurations |
| Quantity | One Air Locker Differential Assembly |
Fitment
The ARB RD167 is designed for compatible Dana 60 and Dana 60HD axle applications using 35-spline shafts and 4.10-and-down carrier configurations. Vehicle fitment depends on the installed axle, spline count, carrier, and ring gear configuration.
| Make | Model | Year Range | Axle Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dodge | Ram 2500 / 3500 | 1996–2003 | Dana 60 / 60HD - Verify Axle |
| Ford | E-150 | 2008–2013 | Dana 60 - Verify Axle |
| Ford | E-250 / E-250 Econoline | 1997–2014 | Dana 60 - Verify Axle |
| Ford | E-350 / E-350 Super Duty / Club Wagon | 1997–2008 | Dana 60 - Verify Axle |
| Ford | F-250 / F-250 HD | 1996–1999 | Dana 60 Front - Verify Axle |
| Ford | F-250 Super Duty | 1999–2022 | Dana 60 / 60HD Front - Verify Axle |
| Ford | F-350 | 1996–1997 | Dana 60 Front - Verify Axle |
| Ford | F-350 Super Duty | 1999–2022 | Dana 60 / 60HD Front - Verify Axle |
Fitment Notes:
- Fits compatible Dana 60 and Dana 60HD front or rear axle applications.
- Requires 35-spline axle shafts with the correct differential engagement dimensions.
- Designed for 4.10 and numerically lower gear ratio carrier configurations.
- Reverse rotation front Dana 60 applications with aftermarket gears may require RD166 or RD167 depending on carrier configuration.
- Not every vehicle listed uses a compatible Dana 60 axle.
- Verify the axle identification, spline count, carrier bearings, and ring gear mounting before ordering.
- Requires a compatible compressed air supply.
- ARB air compressor sold separately.
- Professional differential installation is recommended.
Builder Note: Dana 60 axles were manufactured in multiple front and rear configurations with different spline counts, gear ratios, carrier breaks, and ring gear mounting arrangements. The RD167 should be selected based on the installed differential rather than vehicle year alone. High-pinion reverse rotation applications and modified axles require additional verification before installation.
FAQ
What axles does the ARB RD167 Air Locker fit?
The RD167 is designed for compatible Dana 60 and Dana 60HD front and rear differential applications using 35-spline axle shafts and 4.10-and-down carrier configurations. Exact fitment depends on the installed axle and ring gear setup.
Will the ARB RD167 fit my Ford F-250 or F-350 Super Duty?
The RD167 is listed for select Ford Super Duty applications equipped with compatible Dana 60 or Dana 60HD axles. Verify the installed axle model, spline count, and carrier configuration before ordering because different front axle options were available.
What gear ratios are compatible with the RD167?
The supplied specifications identify the RD167 for 4.10 and numerically lower gear ratio carrier applications. Verify carrier compatibility when installing aftermarket or thick ring and pinion gear sets.
Can the RD167 be used in a reverse rotation Dana 60 front axle?
Some reverse rotation Dana 60 front axle applications may use the RD167, but compatibility depends on the specific housing, ring gear, and carrier configuration. ARB RD166 may be required for certain applications.
Does the ARB RD167 require an air compressor?
Yes. A compatible ARB air compressor and air supply system are required to engage the locker. The compressor is sold separately.
How does the ARB RD167 Air Locker work?
Compressed air activates an internal mechanical locking mechanism that connects both axle shafts, forcing the wheels to rotate together. When disengaged, the differential operates as a conventional open unit.
Can the RD167 be used in a daily-driven truck?
Yes. When disengaged, the Air Locker allows normal differential action for street driving. The driver can activate the locker when additional traction is required off-road.
How is an ARB Air Locker different from a spool?
A spool permanently locks both axle shafts together, while the ARB Air Locker allows the driver to engage or disengage the locking mechanism. This provides improved maneuverability and normal differential operation when unlocked.
Does the RD167 include the activation switch and air line?
Yes. The supplied kit contents include the Air Locker differential assembly, activation switch, solenoid valve, nylon air line, bulkhead fitting, and installation hardware. The compressor is sold separately.
Can I install the RD167 during a ring and pinion gear change?
Yes. Installing an Air Locker during a re-gear is practical because the original differential carrier is already being removed. Correct carrier bearing preload, backlash, and ring gear tooth contact pattern must be established during installation.
Is the RD167 suitable for rock crawling and off-road racing?
Yes. The selectable locking design provides improved traction in demanding off-road conditions, making it suitable for compatible Dana 60 builds used in rock crawling, trail riding, and competition applications.
What should I verify before ordering the RD167?
Confirm the Dana 60 or Dana 60HD axle platform, 35-spline shaft configuration, 4.10-and-down carrier compatibility, ring gear mounting, and available air supply. Reverse rotation front axle applications should also be checked against ARB's application requirements.
