'79 Ford Dana 60 *rear* axle - worth the trouble?

[rpinkstn]

sorry if this is a noob question - I've had my '86 K5 "project" sitting in the driveway for two years now and I'm finally getting started on acquiring parts for it. I have an opportunity to go grab a Dana 60 rear axle from a '79 Ford F-250 for dirt cheap but I'm wondering if it's worth the trouble. I expect to have to relocate the spring perches at a minimum, but what else would be involved and is a '79 Ford D60 rear axle worth rebuilding, modifying and installing??

Any input is appreciated.

Thanks,
Rob

 

[DEMON44]

nope, 14bolt FF is stronger and just as dirt cheap. and more bolt in.

 

[BoondocK5]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^Man speaks truth!

 

[rpinkstn]

thanks for the feedback guys.

so...(and here's the noob again)what is a 14bolt FF and what are good sources? been hanging around a few Jeep guys and they usually talk about Dana this and Dana that - never heard of a 14bolt FF although I've seen that mentioned plenty on this board. I'm familiar with GM car rear axles ("10-bolt","12-bolt", 8.5, etc.) but I'm still learning about truck axles.

and yes, as soon as I post this I'll go back to searching the forums for more info, but if someone can point me in the right direction, I'd really appreciate it.

 

[NorCal_Chris]

here is more info than you want :P

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/14b_bible/index.html

 

[rpinkstn]

ok...that didn't take too long. I think I have a decent understanding of what a 14-bolt rear axle is. not difficult to understand.

and thanks for the link NorCal_Chris, I actually found that same page through Google.

based on what I've read and knowing what my situation is currently, I think I'm going to pass on the D60 rear end. I wasn't really looking for new axles, but my buddy acquired this one as part of a package deal and was going to let me have it dirt cheap. However, it looks like a GM 14 bolt is a better option and I really need to spend money fixing other things on my blazer right now.

thanks,
Rob