Understanding Ford F-150 Axles: Types and Functions

Ford F-150 is a pickup truck with full-size, known for its versatility and innovative feature. It is one the popular among Ford F-series line-up that consistently it is ranking as one of the best-selling vehicle in North America. For F-150 features a wide range of axle types which are depending on the make, model, and year and drivetrain setup to intended use like heavy load towing or off-roading. Here is a breakdown of the different types of axles used in Ford F-150:

Different Types of Axles

Solid Rear Axle

• You will found this in all the models of Ford F-150.
• Functions when single solid axle connect with both the rear wheels.
• Provides the durability and high load capacity which is requires for towing and hauling.
• It pairs with leaf spring suspension for strength and simplicity.
• In rear axle, it has two common variations; one is 9.75 inch and other one is 8.8 inch. First one is use in higher trims and models require the increase towing capability and other one is found in lighter duty models.

IFS Axle

• IFS axle uses in all the modern F-150 for front axles.
• Functions by allowing each front wheel to move separately to improve the ride quality and handling.
• It delivers the power in front wheels among 4×4 or AWD setup.
• For suspension movement it has A-arms and control arms.

Drive Axles

In drive axles you will find the three kinds:

• First one is, RWD in which power transmitted only to solid rear axle.
• Next is 4×4, which includes front and rear drive axles with power distribution as requires.
• Last one is AWD, it is as similar to 4×4 but it is optimize on-road use to ensure that power distribution remains consistent for stability.

Electronic Locking Differential Axle

• This option of axle is available in many trims.
• The main purpose is to lock both the wheels on same axle together at one time to increase the traction.
• It is ideal for off-roading and situation where one wheel might lose its traction.
• Its common ratios are 3.55, 3.73 and 4.10 gear ratios depending on trims and use case.

High-Performance Axles

• This axle is specially design for off-roading.
• It has upgrade its axles with large diameter shafts and reinforce the CV joints.
• Heavy duty axle with specialize suspension for rug terrain.
• Its back axle is equip with Torsen finite-slip or locking differential for maximum traction.

Heavy-Duty Payload Packages Axles

• It is available to configure the F-150 for maximum towing and payload.
• It has upgrade its rear axle for higher GVWR and enhances the cooling and gearing to handle heavy loads.
• The most common axle model has 9.75 inch and larger variants.

These are the different kinds of Axles, you can install in your vehicle. Make sure the car parts are ASE Certified mechanic.

In The End

In summary, we conclude that these are all kinds of axles in Ford F-150. No matter which axle you use, it requires proper maintenance which includes lubrication and inspection to ensure that it work for longer period of time with excellent performance.