Locker for a Dana 50 in a F250 Diesel??

[B85]

So I am working on my F250 and need some Input on the front axle. Should it stay open or go locker? Been looking at the PowerTrax about $450 , on big deal to install ? Or the E-lock from Auburn about $850 and lots of work ? As stock it has worked fine------- but? :ylsmoke:
Thanks for the input and help!:bike_rider:
Randy

 

[4x4junkie]

I think it would depend on some variables whether your D50's 30 spline shafts would be reliable with a locker or not...

What size tires are you running? (and is your truck a reg cab, Super, or Crew cab?)

 

[bjm206]

With the 4x4 engaged auto lockers like the PowerTrax can induce understeer on front axle applications in slippery conditions. Selectable lockers (E-Lock, ARB etc.) give you the option to disengage the locker and still be in 4x4. So no handling issues when disengaged.

The Dana 50 is somewhat marginal strength wise in a heavier trucks because of the neck down on the inner axles at the splines. You can use a locker just avoid beating on it or you will break an axle.

 

[B85]

Thanks for the input!
Tires will be 315/75r/16. Running 265/75r/16 now. Leveling kit.
Used only when needed. I do not go looking to get stuck.
Randy

 

[bfdiesel]

My opinion on the matter is use the money to get a dana 60 in it before a locker, cause I tend to break 1/2 and 3/4 ton axles. If you do lock it or put in a LSD, the advice above is sound.

 

[bjm206]

The Dana 60 swap is plug and play and if you shop around they can be had really cheap. Another advantage is you can upgrade the axle before putting it on which is easier and less of a time crunch if you need to keep the truck on the road.

 

[B85]

Good points all! I will look into a Dana 60. Thanks

 

[daddyusmaximus]

Tires will be 315/75r/16.

That's what I run. Got my ARB lockers on order right now. I'm hoping the Dana 50 holds up, I'll only lock it if I need to. I'll know by the end of the summer... I will be testing them. Carefully.

 

[redthies]

B85: What year truck? Is it a TTB? I'm not super knowledgeable on superduty specs, but did the D50 come in a solid axle in the '99 and up F250?

 

[IdaSHO]

Some super-dutys did come with a solid axle D50, yes.


As for strength, the actual difference between the TTB D50 and a D60 is very slight. Chances are if you are breaking shafts or u-joints on a D50, you probably would be breaking them on a D60 as well.

The real benefits pushing to a D60 are suspension and steeing related. The D50 is never really "correct" when it comes to suspension and steering alignment. Camber and toe alignments are ALWAYS changing as the suspension cycles.

 

[redthies]

I know the TTBs well. Just assumed the solid axle in superduty era trucks would be at least a 60. Silly rabbits...

 

[Buliwyf]

'99+ Ford superduties had solid front axles called Dana50's. Those are plenty strong. Pinion gear and bearings are thier weak point that was solved by the Dana60 in 2003+ish Superduties.
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Lock the rear of a Superduty, leave your front open. I rarely slip a front tire when my rear is locked. Locking the front and/or swapping a Dana60 up front is bigtime overkill unless you're hardcore wheeling your Superduty. Besides the rear is very locker friendly. Detroit/Yukon/ARB.

 

[locrwln]

The D60 started early to mid 2002 on the SD's.

I agree with everyone else, put the money in a d60.

Jack

 

[Buliwyf]

The D60 started early to mid 2002 on the SD's.

I agree with everyone else, put the money in a d60.

Jack

Especially if it's a TTB! I hate those things!
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But the solid axle 99+ Dana 50's are pretty good. Those are actually Dana 60's with a Dana 44 ring/pinion. So it can handle the torque a 44 can, but the smae weight a 60 can. As long as you don't twist up the front axles while locked up in a turn or rockcrawl with them you'll be OK.
Dana 50 = 229
Dana 60 = 248
Dana 70 = 267
Dana 80 = 286

The three digit model number is cast into the center section, upside down, on the passenger side above the horizontal reinforcement rib. The three digit model number is also on the paper assembly tag in a box in the bottom right corner.
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Dana 44 under a fulsize=I'm pulling it and swaping a 60 in.
Dana 50 TTB= I'm swapping a 60 in.
Dana 50 solid under a 99+ Superduty= I'm happy as long as I don't want a cheapo locker. Stick to Truetrac's, Detroit, and ARB. ARB being the best choice for the 50.

 

[daddyusmaximus]

ARB being the best choice for the 50.

That's what I'm going with. I'll only need to lock it once in a while, in deep mud... etc. I like the idea of having a selectable locker.