Every serious off-road enthusiast and high-performance builder understands that the axle is the heart of a vehicle's strength. Among all heavy-duty axles, the Dana 60 holds a legendary status. However, salvaged or modified axles often keep secrets regarding their true internal specifications. To crack this code, you must locate and decipher the Dana 60 BOM Number (Bill of Materials), a unique code stamped directly onto the long axle tube. Knowing how to use this number is the key to ordering the correct replacement parts, from the ring and pinion set to the carrier and axle shaft splines.
This identification process is crucial because component
incompatibility, even minor differences, can lead to costly differential
failure. The BOM number is more than just a series of digits; it is the unique
fingerprint issued by the Dana manufacturer, summarizing all the original
factory specifications. With this guide, you will learn the step-by-step
process of finding, reading, and utilizing the BOM Number to unlock all the
hidden technical details.
We will guide you through identifying your Dana 60 axle, dissecting the meaning of each column in the BOM list, and ensuring you possess the necessary Expertise and Trust before investing in any driveline modification or repair.
Understanding the Significance of the Dana 60 Bill of Materials (BOM) Number
The Dana 60 BOM Number is a five- to seven-digit
identification code, often followed by a dash and an additional digit (the
suffix), which is stamped into the long axle tube. This code is the most
accurate way to identify the axle's configuration as it left the factory, as it
records all the original specifications set by the manufacturer.
Searching for the Dana 60 BOM number is the critical
first step. Most Dana axles have the BOM stamped on the front of the long axle
tube, close to the center section (differential housing), typically on the
passenger side. Because this location is frequently exposed to dirt, grease,
and rust, you may need to thoroughly clean the area using a wire brush and
cleaner before the numbers become clearly visible.
1. Fundamental Difference from Individual Part Numbers
The BOM number (for example, $611337-1$) is different from
individual component part numbers (e.g., the ring and pinion set number). The
BOM number refers to the entire axle unit and all its original
constituent parts. The digit after the dash (-1, -2, etc.) often indicates a
variation in the gear ratio or differential type for that specific base axle
model.
2. Why a Curated BOM List Trumps Standard Online Tools
Although Dana provides an online tool for BOM lookup, that
tool often lists obsolete parts or gives details that are difficult to
translate into available modern aftermarket components. Curated BOM lists, such
as the one available at AxleBuilder.com, filter the critical information
needed by axle builders, presenting essential details in an easily accessible
format.
a. Accurate Ratio Confirmation: Ensures the listed gear
ratio matches the axle's original specification.
b. Carrier Suitability: Identifies the correct carrier break
(e.g., Low/High), which dictates the type of carrier or locker you can install.
c. Spline Verification: Verifies the axle shaft spline count, which is crucial for ordering the correct locker or replacement axle shafts.
🔑 Decoding the Technical Specifications from Your Dana Axle BOM Number
Once you have successfully located and cleaned your Dana
60 BOM number, the next step is to understand what that number reveals
through the provided data columns. This process allows you to confidently
confirm critical technical specifications without having to tear down the axle.
1. Axle Position and Type
The Pos. (Position) and Axle Details columns
reveal where the axle was installed and its specific type. Almost all Dana 60
BOMs listed here are for a Front Axle, as rear Dana 60 axles often have
different BOMs and rarely require reverse cut gear identification.
a. Dana 60 (Non-Super): The standard, venerable Dana 60
axle.
b. Dana Super 60 / 10" Gear: A heavier-duty variant
featuring a larger 10-inch ring gear.
c. Dana 60 Disconnect: An axle equipped with a disconnect
mechanism on one side's axle shaft.
2. Understanding Gear Ratio (Ratio) and Rotation
These two details are the most frequently sought. Ratio
indicates the number of pinion revolutions required for one ring gear
revolution.
a. Ratio Classification: A numerically lower ratio (e.g.,
3.54) provides better highway cruising speed, while a numerically higher ratio
(e.g., 5.38) provides significantly more torque, which is essential for
low-speed off-road use.
b. Rotation: This refers to the design of the ring and
pinion set. Most modern front axles use a Reverse Rotation (Reverse Cut), where
the pinion is above the ring gear. The gear teeth are specially designed to
bear the load during forward vehicle movement, which is critical for gear
longevity. Rear axles and some older front axles use Standard Rotation.
3. Identifying the Carrier Break and Spline Count
This information is vital for selecting a replacement Locker
or Limited Slip Differential (LSD). The Carrier is the housing
that holds the differential assembly, and its size is determined by the gear
ratio.
a. Dana 60 Carrier Break: There are two main categories,
known as the Carrier Break, for the Dana 60 axle:
* Low (4.10-): Used for gear ratios of 4.10 and numerically
lower (such as 3.54, 3.73).
* High (4.56+): Used for gear ratios of 4.56 and numerically
higher (such as 4.88, 5.38).
b. Spline Count: This is the number of teeth on the end of the axle shaft that engages with the differential's side gear. The majority of heavy-duty Dana 60s use 35 Spline for superior strength, though older Disconnect models may use 30 Spline or 32 Spline. Confirming this column ensures you purchase the correct aftermarket axle shaft or locker.
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As an SEO Specialist and Content Strategist, I emphasize
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(Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) for
AxleBuilder.com.
1. Building Trust through Technical Data (Trustworthiness)
Content that provides raw, verifiable data, such as the BOM
list you publish, inherently builds Trustworthiness and Expertise.
Your commitment to publishing hard-to-find data and verifying its accuracy
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a. Strategic Internal Linking: From this article, link to
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3. Adherence to the Helpful Content System (HCS)
This article is written for the amateur and professional axle builder, focusing on providing a real solution: How do I identify my axle and order the correct parts? The content does not merely define technical terms but also explains the implications of each specification (e.g., why Reverse Rotation is crucial).
Applying Your Axle Identification: Practical Steps
Once you have deciphered your Dana 60 BOM number
using a credible BOM list, you can proceed with repair or upgrade steps
confidently.
1. Selecting the Right Ring and Pinion
Confirming your original ratio is paramount. If you plan to
change the ratio (e.g., from 3.73 to 4.88), you must:
a. Check the Carrier Break: A 3.73 ratio uses the Low
(4.10-) carrier, whereas a 4.88 requires the High (4.56+) carrier. If your new
ratio crosses the carrier break, you must purchase a new carrier (or a locker
that supports the appropriate break).
b. Confirm Rotation: Ensure you order a Reverse Cut ring and
pinion set for your front axle, unless the BOM specifically indicates Standard
Rotation.
2. Upgrading Diff Lockers and Axle Shafts
You can confidently select your replacement differential
locker or LSD.
a. Verify Spline Count: If the BOM indicates 35 Spline,
ensure the locker and axle shafts you purchase are 35-spline compatible.
Upgrading the spline count (e.g., from 30 to 35) requires replacing both the
axle shafts and the differential/locker to support the higher spline count.
b. Specific U-Joints: For specific Dana Super 60 models (as noted in some BOMs as 1550 U-Joint), be aware of the larger U-Joint dimensions, which indicate increased strength in the outer axle shafts.
🔒 Conclusion: The Key to Dana 60 Axle Accuracy and Trust
Decoding the Dana 60 BOM Number is the skill that
separates the meticulous builder from the rest. A structured BOM lookup tool,
like the one you offer, eliminates guesswork and risk, allowing you to
precisely identify the ratio, carrier break, and spline count simply by looking
at the factory stamped code. By cross-verifying every detail against a curated
list, you ensure every parts investment you make is correct and effective,
maintaining the legendary performance of your Dana 60 axle.
Always ensure a thorough cleaning of the axle tube and use the data you retrieve to cross-reference with replacement product specifications. With the right information, the strength of your axle on any terrain is guaranteed.