Dana 44 vs Dana 60 Visual Identification

[tuscarora]

What characteristics should I look for to know if I am looking at a dana 44 or a dana 60? Which rear is better? Is it easy to convert a dana 44 to a dana 60 on a 1970 f-250? What all is involved? Thanks for the help.

[FORDification]

If you've got an F250, it'll have a Dana 60. The Dana 44 is more of a half-ton rearend. The two easiest ways to tell:

1) look at the lower webbing and see what number is cast there:



2) A Dana 44 cover bolt can be removed with a 1/2" socket. The Dana 60 cover bolt requires a 9/16" socket.

[fordman]

plus the dana 44 is a smaller housing than the 60. it is even smaller than a 9 inch rear end.

[basketcase0302]

tuscarora,

Which rear is better? Is it easy to convert a dana 44 to a dana 60 on a 1970 f-250? What all is involved?

The Dana 60 is definitely more "bulletproof" with it's larger diameter ring & pinion and larger diameter axle shafts.
Which also make them more expensive, and getting harder to find.

The swap would include:
Different u-joint to mate to the 60 yoke.
E-brake cable mods to hook-up to the 60.
Possibly changing rims from 5 to 8 bolt pattern, (unless you have a HD-44 in the truck now).

Jeff

[tuscarora]

Thanks guys. I am looking at the front rear off of a 1978 F-250 4wd with disc brakes and debating on purchasing it. I have brand new gears I recently acquired for my currently installed 1970 F-250 4wd front differential, so I do not just want to waste my money on the parts I have already bought. I am also looking to upgrade to power steering, and could see where using the exact front differential with steering linkage may make that process a whole lot easier. Any input from anybody to help me make my mind up would be appreciated.