Axles & Differentials | 1983 - 1987 Ford 6.9L IDI

Axles & Differentials for 1983–1987 Ford 6.9L IDI Diesel Trucks

You’ve heard the saying, “They don’t make them like they used to!” haven’t you? It’s true — trucks from the mid to late ’80s were built differently. These classic Ford diesels were engineered to last, but even the toughest components eventually need attention. The Dana and Sterling axles found under the 1983–1987 Ford 6.9L IDI were impressively strong for their time, but like any mechanical system, they developed issues over years of heavy use.

Many of the Dana 44 axles were excellent for light-duty work, yet under extreme loads, axle failures became a common occurrence. On Dana 60-equipped models, wear on the ring and pinion gears was a known problem — a serious concern for work trucks that rely on consistent torque delivery. Meanwhile, later Sterling differentials were notorious for developing slow leaks over time.

While these axles and differentials were durable for their era, decades of towing, off-roading, and high-stress use have taken their toll. The good news? Diesel Power Products offers a complete lineup of axle and differential upgrades to get your 6.9L IDI back on the road — stronger and more reliable than ever before.

For those looking to enhance both performance and appearance, you can’t go wrong with an upgraded differential cover. We carry premium options from Mag-Hytec and Banks Power, featuring increased fluid capacity, integrated cooling fins, and machined aluminum housings that both look great and help improve performance.

If you’re chasing strength and reliability for your Dana 60-equipped F-350, consider the Yukon Gear & Axle 35-Spline Front Axle Kit — which includes both inner and outer axles, Yukon Super Joints, and all necessary hardware. These components are built from high-tensile 4340 Chromoly steel, ensuring maximum durability under heavy torque and off-road conditions.

A common issue on these classic Fords involves the factory locking hubs disengaging under high-torque loads. By upgrading to a set of Dynatrac DynaLoc hubs, you gain three times the strength, a low-profile design that reduces impact with rocks or debris, and an easy bolt-on installation — all designed to improve your truck’s drivability and resilience.

Whether you’re restoring your classic Ford, tackling a full rebuild, or building a capable workhorse, Diesel Power Products has the axles, gears, lockers, bearings, and covers to make your 6.9L IDI perform better than ever.

Why Upgrade Your 6.9 IDI’s Axles & Differentials?

• Restore Reliability: Replace worn or leaking components to keep your drivetrain tight.

• Boost Strength: Handle higher torque loads with heavy-duty Chromoly and billet parts.

• Enhance Traction: Choose lockers or limited-slip differentials for consistent grip.

• Improve Cooling: Performance diff covers keep fluid temps stable during hard use.

• Direct Fitment: Designed specifically for 1983–1987 F-250 and F-350 IDI models.

Popular Axle & Differential Components

• Ring & Pinion Gear Sets (Multiple Ratios)

• Differential Lockers & Limited-Slip Units

• Axle Shafts, Bearings & Seals

• Performance Differential Covers (Mag-Hytec, Banks Power)

• Dynatrac DynaLoc Hubs & Yukon Chromoly Kits

Rebuild or upgrade your 1983–1987 Ford 6.9L IDI drivetrain with premium axle and differential components from Diesel Power Products. Classic strength, modern performance, and proven reliability — built to outlast and outperform.