Driveline System

The driveline system consists of the following:

• Dana® semi float or full-float, single reduction axles
• Weight carrying hubs with removable brake components on full float axles
• Opposed tapered hub bearing and cup assemblies lubricated with axle fluid on full float axles
• One-piece driveshaft for standard wheelbase vehicles (124 in and 138 in) with 2 U-joints and a slip joint
• Two-piece driveshaft for longer wheelbase vehicles (158 in and greater) includes a front (or coupling) shaft, a rubber-insulated frame-mounted driveshaft center bearing, a splined slip joint and an intermediate U-joint

The source of the drivetrain's power is generated by the engine and delivered to the transmission. The driveline transfers the engine torque through the driveshaft and the rear axle. The driveshaft is connected to the output shaft of the transmission and to the rear axle. U-joints are used at both ends of the driveshaft to allow for angular motions. Slip-yokes are used to allow for any changes to the length of the driveshaft. The engine torque enters the axle through the drive pinion, which rotates the ring gear. The ring gear is mounted to the differential case, which contains the gears that transmit power to the rear axle shafts. These shafts rotate the drive wheels.

The engine angle is built into the engine mounts. If the engine angle is out of specification, the engine mounts must be inspected for damage.

Fig 1: Vehicle Certification (VC) Label Example

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

The vehicle certification (VC) label is located in the driver door jamb. The axle code is on the VC label. For information on the VC label, refer to IDENTIFICATION CODES article to cross reference the axle code to the ratio.

Fig 2: Dana Rear Axle Identification Tag

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.