’05+ SUPER DUTY AXLE SWAP

The Axle And Suspension Conversion That Brings Your OBS Ford Into The Modern Age

More than a quarter-century after production ended, old body style Fords remain popular—especially the 7.3L Power Stroke equipped versions offered from ‘94.5-’97. But just because OBS fans are holding onto their favorite body style doesn’t mean they aren’t interested in improving a few things or making significant upgrades. Case in point, when the leaf spring solid front axle option gave way to coil springs for 2005 model year Super Duty’s, everyone took note of the improvements in ride quality, strength, and turning radius. Fast-forward a few years, when late-model Super Duty’s starting showing up in wrecking yards and OBS enthusiasts began getting their hands on the more modern running gear, and the ’05-newer axle and suspension conversion trend began to take off.

This is the source behind the bulk of many ‘05+ Super Duty swaps: the twin traction beam (TTB) Dana 50 under 4×4 OBS Ford F-250’s. While four-wheel drive F-350 trucks of the same era lucked out with the solid Dana 60, the ¾-tons were stuck with IFS front-ends. Unlike the leaf sprung Dana 60, the TTB Dana 50 (also leaf sprung) has many more points of wear, which include but aren’t limited to axle beam pivot bushings and shackle bushings, not to mention rampant alignment issues when larger tires are in the mix.

Today, virtually every OBS owner has heard of the swap (often referred to as an “05+ Super Duty Swap”). And for many who’ve chosen to scrap the tired TTB Dana 50 arrangement under their F-250 in favor of a solid front axle, an ’05-newer coil spring and radius arm suspension makes a lot of sense. This time, we’re highlighting what’s involved in the highly-popular conversion process. From parts-scavenging conversions performed by the DIY’er on a tight budget to all-out, show-quality builds with additional lift, ’05+ Super Duty axle swaps run the gamut. So we’ll share which components you’ll have to source on your own, the odds and ends that will be required to make everything work, and also showcase the comprehensive aftermarket conversion kits that simplify the process.

Instead of rebuilding the TTB when the time comes (often prematurely), a lot of OBS owners pull the trigger on a solid axle swap—and some go all-in on ’05-newer axles, complete with front coil springs and radius arms. The result is vastly improved ride quality, a stronger front suspension, and a tighter turning radius.

To pull off the ‘05+ swap, you’ll first have to source the front axle. Any Dana 60, be it from an ’05-’07, ’08-’10 or ’11-’16 will work, and oftentimes the axle and suspension are purchased together. Some even score an entire wrecked Super Duty for an affordable price to get everything they need.

If you have an unknown model year ’05-’16 axle, it can be identified by looking at the front sway bar end links. On ’05-’07 models, the bushing will be on the bottom and the stud on top. On ’08-’10 models, there will be a bushing on the top and bottom. And on ’11-’16 axles there will be a stud on top and on bottom. The photo shown here illustrates all of the above and comes courtesy of Sky’s Offroad Design.

If you go with aftermarket radius arm frame brackets, follow the instructions to a T. Key measurements will include the distance from the cab mount to the holes in the bracket you’ll have to drill out. Getting this correct is paramount.

Sometimes, coil springs and radius arms can be found and/or bought together. Just remember you need the right and left coil buckets as well—not to mention that half a dozen different spring codes exist, signifying different spring rates, for factory coil springs. Look for those specific codes and spring rates later in this piece.

When it comes to the radius arms, don’t forget the frame brackets. Either OEM or aftermarket versions can used. As for the install, it pays to not be intimidated. In the grand scheme of things, an ‘05+ axle and suspension swap is more about taking measurements and drilling holes than anything else. Don’t over-think it. As you can see here, the factory radius arm frame brackets install very close to the front cab mounts on an OBS.

No matter which radius arm frame brackets you choose, make sure that section of the frame is clean prior to install. That means prepping the area first via rust removal and paint (if necessary). Once the radius arm brackets are in place on the frame, all fasteners should be torqued to factory specifications.

Shock absorber selection shouldn’t be overlooked in an ’05+ axle swap, especially with most shocks being affordable enough even with custom-valving specific to your application. The Fox Performance Series 2.0 shock pictured is both valved appropriately in its OBS application and is the correct length for the added ride height the owner’s coil spring choice provided.

A front sway bar complete with end links will be required for the swap, and it pays to go with fresh end link bushings here. Remember, the sway bar (antiroll bar, anyone?) is present to help reduce body roll in an effort to keep the frame as parallel to the ground as possible, which optimize your tires’ contact patch with the road.

As for the track bar (i.e. panhard bar), the do-it-yourselfer will have to fabricate his or her own track bar mount. Others can source an aftermarket version through outlets like Sky’s Offroad Design or RYD Motorsports. According to many who’ve performed the swap, the ’05-’16 adjustable track bar offered by Icon Vehicle Dynamics is one of the best on the market, allowing you to fine-tune and precisely align your front-end track alignment. It’s important to note here that the OBS engine cradle may require a little trimming in order for an adjustable track bar to clear it.

The RYD Motorsports track bar mount accommodates your Super Duty-intended track bar and also ties in to the back side of the engine cradle. We’ll note that is also comes with Grade 8 mounting hardware. And in case you were wondering, all of RYD’s ‘05+ conversion bracketry ships in bare steel form. You’ll need to powder coat or paint all components before install.

The appropriate sway bar mount will be a requirement that you’ll either have to fab up yourself or get from (once again) either Sky’s Offroad Design or RYD Motorsports, both of which sell versions specifically designed for OBS trucks. The RYD version is pictured here.

The more factory Super Duty steering parts you retain, the easier the swap will be. In order to make the OBS pitman arm work, it will have to be shortened and machined to accept the Super Duty steering. RYD Motorsports offers a pitman arm for OBS trucks from stock height to 3-inches of lift, and a drop pitman arm that accommodates trucks with as much as 8-inches of lift.

With ‘05+ axles under your OBS you’ll finally have bigger brakes and better stopping power. However, you should decide early on if you want to control the 4-way disc brakes via vacuum pump (factory OBS), or if you plan to upgrade to hydroboost. As a helpful hint, an F-Super Duty booster, power steering lines, return line, and the master cylinder and reservoir will all bolt right in. A front, 13.66-inch diameter EBC brake rotor intended for an ’06 F-250 Super Duty, available from our friends at Riffraff Diesel, is shown here.

Although not as glamorous as the coil spring, radius arm ‘05+ Dana 60 up front, a rear 10.5-inch Sterling is a mandatory part of the axle conversion process. And while a ’99-’04 version will certainly work, the ’05-’16 10.5-inch is preferred because of its larger brakes. The rear rotors on a ’99 F-250 measure 13.03-inches (od) vs. 13.39-inches starting in ’05.

There are several roads you can travel down as far as driveshafts are concerned. We’ve seen Super Duty axles be made to work, but more often than not we see OBS owners stick with their original driveshafts. Of course, depending on the ride height you choose (i.e. lifted or lowered), you may also have to shorten or lengthen your driveshafts.

The easiest way to make your OBS driveshaft work with a Super Duty axle is by using RYD Motorsports’ driveshaft conversion kit. Its kit provides for a U-joint being used up front, and a flange being used in the rear to seamlessly adapt your old driveshaft to the new axle.

When you’re transferring over or selecting your rear leaf spring packs, keep in mind that correctly-sized blocks are the best way to achieve your target rear ride height. In direct factory ‘05+ axle and suspension swap-overs, we’ve seen the 3-inch rear blocks utilized the most.

Back in the day, outfitting an OBS with ’05-newer axles was a total DIY job and aside from a few in-the-know on the forums, you were essentially on your own in handling the swap. Garret Mazon committed to ‘05+ swapping his ’95 F-250 more than a decade ago and pulled it off with help from Complete Performance, several enthusiasts on the Power Stroke forums, and close friends and relatives for in-person labor. His ’06 axles and suspension were found in local junkyards and his OEM aluminum 17×7’s were sourced from eBay.

Today you’re no longer on your own, as several aftermarket companies offer complete kits to help simplify the conversion process. Among them is the aforementioned RYD Motorsports and Sky’s Offroad Design, as well as Blowing Diesel. The kit from Sky’s Offroad Design (shown) is designed for ’92-’97 F-250 and F-350 trucks and can be ordered to fit ’05-’16 Dana 60 axles (which are broken down into ’05-’07, ’08-’10, and ’11-’16 versions). Sky’s kit comes with stock height (and right and left) coil buckets, right and left radius arm frame brackets, right and left sway bar brackets, a panhard bar bracket, a machined flat pitman arm, all necessary hardware. Everything is laser cut, CNC formed, welded to perfection, and the all-inclusive kit retails for $1,532.00.

What we really like to see is a company taking care of manual transmission OBS owners, and RYD Motorsports’ ZF-5 crossmember does exactly that. It’s designed to fit inside the frame rails of your OBS and use the same mounting holes as the company’s radius arms to ease the installation process. The crossmember loops over the top of the driveshaft, offers plenty of clearance, is CNC cut and bent, and is made from ¼-inch thick steel.

At a similar price point ($1,549.99), RYD Motorsports’ ‘05+ Super Duty axle swap kit is designed to retain and use all the factory parts from the ‘05+ suspension and steering in order to keep the swap process as straightforward as possible. The company’s kit includes stock height fabricated coil buckets (pictured), radius arm frame brackets, a track bar bracket, sway bar brackets, a pitman arm (which has been machined to accept Super Duty steering), and Grade 8 hardware. To minimize drilling, all brackets bolt in and locate using existing holes in the OBS frame.

One of the complaints some high-horsepower OBS owners have with an ‘05+ Super Duty axle swap is the same front-end bouncing that occurs on ’05-newer trucks in four-wheel drive. To solve the problem, RYD Motorsports offers a short-arm four-link system. It keeps the front axle planted, and improves stability and caster control during wheel travel. With a four-link system, you’re able to enjoy the improved ride quality the coil spring suspension provides without sacrificing traction during boosted, 4×4 launches.

For all-out, show-quality OBS builds, RYD again has an answer. Its 8-inch front and rear coilover kit is intended to help you clear massive rolling stock. The system entails sway bar and end links, an 8-inch track bar kit, coilover buckets and axle mounts, four-link bars for both the front and rear, a cradle, rear trusses, conversion U-joints, brake lines, and overlays for everything.

If you wanted a crew cab 4×4 with a short bed in the 1990s, it had to come in F-250 form. This meant your truck rode on the TTB Dana 50—until you converted it to a solid axle. Andy Inman switched over to a leaf sprung Dana 60, then a few years later pulled the trigger on ’08 Super Duty axles and suspension. The front coil spring, radius arm suspension was installed in two evenings after work at his place of business in Park Hills, Missouri: Andy’s Garage Service.

One of the benefits of running Super Duty axles is that you get the 8 on 170mm bolt pattern (vs. the OBS trucks’ 8 on 6.5), which means you get to bolt Super Duty wheels on without the need for adapters. However, you will likely have to source your own Super Duty wheels, be they aftermarket or OEM 17×7’s. Here, Andy Inman’s ’97 F-250 sports a set of 20-inch wheel off of a ’15 King Ranch Super Duty. As for overall tire diameter, you can run a 34-inch tire on stock ’05 coil springs and still enjoy ample clearance.

What You’ll Need To Obtain And/Or Do On Your Own:

*Front axle (be it a Dana 60 from an ’05-’07, ’08-’10 or ’11-’16)
*Coil springs (be advised that different factory spring rate coils exist:
*Different spring rates by code:
ACD = 4,000-lb
ADD = 4,400-lb
AED = 4,800-lb
AFD = 5,200-lb
AGD = 5,600-lb
AHD = 6,000-lb
*Radius arms
*Track bar
*Sway bar with end links
*Steering components from the pitman arm down
*Rear axle (can be a ’99-’16 10.5-inch, but the ’05-’16 is preferred because of the larger brakes)
*Appropriate height rear blocks
*Source new power steering lines
*Shorten the steering linkage/pitman arm or purchase aftermarket
*Fabricate a new track bar mount or purchase aftermarket
*Decide if you want to control the 4-way disc brakes via vacuum pump or if you want to convert to hydroboost
*Source different length brake lines

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SOURCES

1023 Diesel & Fleet
833.773.1023
1023diesel.com

Andy’s Garage Service
573.431.2626

Blowing Diesel
blowingdiesel.com

Complete Performance
409.383.6004
cpaddict.com

Icon Vehicle Dynamics
951.689.4266
iconvehicledynamics.com

Riffraff Diesel
541.879.1052
riffraffdiesel.com

RYD Motorsports
604.210.5170
rydmotorsports.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are there any customer reviews available for the Ford OBS 05+ Axle Swap Kit?

Customer Reviews for the Ford OBS 05+ Axle Swap Kit

Overall Rating

4.85 out of 5 (Based on 26 reviews)

Detailed Customer Feedback

Jacob D. (10/11/2024)
- Installed the kit on a ’94 Bronco with a 5.8 engine.
- Quality of the kit and hardware was impressive.
- Note: Required bracket modifications for a perfect fit on a 1/2 ton frame.
Zachary Freeman (09/09/2024)
- Praises the craftsmanship and weld quality of the front axle swap kit and cross member.
- Commends swift shipping and top-notch customer service.
- Appreciates detailed support from the company owner when contacted.
Mason (08/15/2024)
- Expressed excitement for installation, highlighting aesthetic appeal.
Michael Barrett (07/25/2024)
- Pleased with the axle swap kit’s fitment and technical support.
- Proudly notes product origin.
Josh Masaschi (07/18/2024)
- Successfully used the kit for swapping axles on a ’97 F350 with those from an ’09.
- Found instructions user-friendly and parts well-crafted for seamless integration.
- Praises the transformative ride quality and exceptional customer support.

These reviews showcase high customer satisfaction with the Ford OBS 05+ Axle Swap Kit, highlighting the product’s quality, ease of installation, and excellent customer service.

Is the axle swap kit intended for off-road use only?

Yes, the axle swap kit is specifically designed for off-road use. These kits are engineered with the rugged demands of off-road adventures in mind, enhancing the durability and performance of vehicles traversing tough terrain.

Why It’s Suitable for Off-Road

Enhanced Durability: The components are crafted to withstand the harsh conditions of rocky trails and uneven surfaces, ensuring longevity and reliability when the going gets tough.
Improved Performance: Off-road trails often present unique challenges, like steep inclines and sudden drops. The axle swap kit offers improved articulation and ground clearance, which is crucial for tackling such obstacles effortlessly.
Custom Modifications: These kits allow for extensive customization, letting users tailor their vehicles specifically for off-road adventures. Features like increased tire clearance and reinforced axle shafts are just some enhancements that improve off-road capability.

Considerations for Road Use

Legal Restrictions: Many regions have regulations that restrict the use of certain off-road modifications on public roads due to safety standards. It’s essential to check local laws if you intend to use a vehicle with this kit on paved roads.
Ride Comfort and Handling: While excellent for rough terrains, these kits might affect on-road ride comfort and handling, making them less ideal for everyday road use.

In summary, the axle swap kit is ideally suited for those who prioritize off-road excursions. If your adventures often lead you off the beaten path, this kit is an excellent choice. However, always ensure compliance with local vehicle regulations if you plan to occasionally hit the highway.

Is there a downloadable installation guide available?

Absolutely, you can access a downloadable installation guide to assist with your setup. This guide offers detailed instructions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free installation process.

Here’s what you need to know:

Step-by-Step Instructions: The guide walks you through each crucial step, providing clarity and helpful tips to prevent any potential hiccups.
Visual Aids: With diagrams and illustrations, you’ll find it easier to understand and follow the procedures.
Compatibility Details: Check which third-party brands and components are supported, ensuring your installation is successful from the start.
Quick Access: Download the guide directly to your device for easy reference, even while offline.

Install with confidence by downloading your comprehensive installation guide today!

What are the specific customer feedback and experiences with the axle swap kit?

Customer Feedback and Experiences with the Axle Swap Kit

Overall Impressions

Customers are generally delighted with the quality and craftsmanship of the axle swap kit. Common praises include top-notch materials and welding, making the products stand out in terms of durability and finish. The hardware is designed with precision, ensuring a solid fit and enhancing vehicle performance.

Installation Experiences

Feedback indicates varied installation experiences depending on vehicle models. For instance, users installing the kit on a 1994 Bronco with a 5.8 engine noted that, while possible, it required custom fabrication for certain brackets. Nonetheless, the kit seems to fit perfectly for other vehicles such as the Ford F350, particularly models from 1997upgraded with 2009 parts, with straightforward instructions and alignment with existing frame holes.

Customer Service

Customer service receives high marks across a range of reviews. Buyers appreciate the responsiveness and expertise of the support team, highlighting the ability to speak directly with knowledgeable staff. This personalized assistance helps customers navigate both installation intricacies and any required additional components.

Additional Observations

Ease of Installation: Many find the kit user-friendly, with comprehensive instructions that make the process smoother.
Product Longevity: The “Made in the USA” label reassures users about product quality and supports domestic manufacturing.
Immediate Performance Improvement: Users have noted a significant enhancement in ride quality post-installation.
Positive Recommendations: Several reviewers enthusiastically recommend the kit and express intent to make future purchases.

Shipping and Delivery

Customers report efficient shipping processes, often receiving the kit within a week of purchase. This prompt service adds to the overall positive buying experience.

This mix of high-quality product features, effective customer service, and real-world vehicle improvements leaves a strong impression, encouraging many to return for additional purchases.

Can the kit be used for both 2WD and 4WD vehicles?

Absolutely, the kit is designed to accommodate both 2WD and 4WD vehicles.

Features

Versatile Compatibility: Whether your vehicle is 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive, this kit has you covered.
Customizable Options: Before adding to your cart, simply select your vehicle’s drivetrain type to ensure optimal performance and fit.

Simple Selection Process

Identify Your Vehicle Type: Determine if your vehicle is 2WD or 4WD.
Make Your Choice: Select your preferred drivetrain option from the dropdown menu during the purchase process.

This ensures that you’ll receive components tailored specifically to your vehicle’s needs. Enjoy the flexibility without compromising on quality!

What is the overall customer satisfaction rating for the axle swap kit?

The axle swap kit has received an impressive overall customer satisfaction score, with an average rating of 4.85 out of 5 stars based on feedback from 26 reviewers.

What are the return and cancellation policies for the axle swap kit?

Return and Cancellation Policies for the Axle Swap Kit

When purchasing the axle swap kit, it’s important to be clear on both our return and cancellation policies.

Return Policy

Custom Creations: Each axle swap kit is crafted specifically for your order. Due to this customization, all sales are final. We do not offer returns or refunds on these products.

Cancellation Policy

Request Process: If you need to cancel your order, please submit a cancellation request before your product is shipped.
Acknowledgment Required: Ensure that your request is acknowledged to confirm the cancellation process.
Cancellation Fee: Be aware that a 5% fee will be applied to all cancellation requests. This covers processing and any inconvenience caused during the order fulfillment phase.

Being informed of these policies ensures a smooth purchasing experience and helps manage expectations regarding transaction changes. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out for assistance.

What is included in the Ford OBS 05+ Axle Swap Kit?

Stock height fabricated coil buckets (pictured)
Radius arm frame brackets
Track bar bracket
Sway bar brackets
Pitman arm (which has been machined to accept Super Duty steering)
Grade 8 hardware

This comprehensive kit ensures that each component is tailored to fit seamlessly with your existing setup. By focusing on compatibility with factory parts, the swap process is not only simplified but also maintains the integrity and performance of your vehicle’s suspension and steering systems. Whether you’re upgrading or replacing, this kit provides all the essentials for a smooth transition to the ‘05+ axle configuration.

Is there an emphasis purely on what is included, without additional context?

The focus is strictly on listing the items in the kit, providing a clear and concise inventory without further narrative or context.

Are there any additional components not mentioned in your article?

The inclusion of coil buckets and radius arm brackets is noted, without specifying design or height details, suggesting a potential broader interpretation of the kit content.

What components are included in the kit?

The kit contains components such as coil buckets, radius arm brackets, a track bar bracket, sway bar brackets, a pitman arm, and Grade 8 hardware.

Which vehicles are compatible with the Ford OBS 05+ Axle Swap Kit?

Today you’re no longer on your own, as several aftermarket companies offer complete kits to help simplify the conversion process. Among them is the aforementioned RYD Motorsports and Sky’s Offroad Design, as well as Blowing Diesel. The kit from Sky’s Offroad Design (shown) is designed for ’92-’97 F-250 and F-350 trucks and can be ordered to fit ’05-’16 Dana 60 axles (which are broken down into ’05-’07, ’08-’10, and ’11-’16 versions).

Compatibility and Modifications

Fits: 1992-1997 F250, F350
Additional Adjustments Needed For:
- F150, Bronco, and 1980-1991 2WD Trucks: May require additional holes drilled and a 1/4″ shim at the frame rail for the track bar bracket.
- ZF5 Trucks: Crossmember modification is necessary.
- Engine Crossmember: Minor trimming might be required for track bar clearance, ranging from 1/6″ to 1/4″.

These detailed specifications ensure you have all the information needed to determine compatibility and any required modifications for a successful swap, enhancing the ease of upgrading your vehicle with modern axle technology.

Are there specific models that do not require these modifications?

The 1992-1997 F250 and F350 models do not require these additional modifications for compatibility.

Is there any trimming required for track bar clearance?

Minor trimming of the engine crossmember might be necessary, ranging from 1/6″ to 1/4″.

Are there any specific modifications needed for ZF5 trucks?

Yes, ZF5 trucks require modifications to the crossmember.

What specific modifications are necessary for certain vehicles?

For the F150, Bronco, and 2WD trucks, additional holes must be drilled, and a 1/4″ shim may be needed at the frame rail for the track bar bracket.

Which vehicles require modifications for compatibility?

The F150, Bronco models from 1980 to 1991, and 2WD trucks need additional adjustments.

Is the axle swap kit recommended for certain applications or vehicle models?

Today you’re no longer on your own, as several aftermarket companies offer complete kits to help simplify the conversion process. Among them is the aforementioned RYD Motorsports and Sky’s Offroad Design. The kit from Sky’s Offroad Design (shown) is designed for ’92-’97 F-250 and F-350 trucks and can be ordered to fit ’05-’16 Dana 60 axles (which are broken down into ’05-’07, ’08-’10, and ’11-’16 versions).

Sky’s kit comes with stock height (and right and left) coil buckets, right and left radius arm frame brackets, right and left sway bar brackets, a panhard bar bracket, a machined flat pitman arm, and all necessary hardware. Everything is laser cut, CNC formed, welded to perfection, and the all-inclusive kit retails for $1,532.00.

Specific Vehicle Fitment and Modifications

Fits: 1992-1997 F250, F350
Additional Requirements:
- F150, Bronco, 80-91, and 2WD trucks will require additional holes drilled and may need a 1/4″ shim at the frame rail for the track bar bracket.
- ZF5 trucks will need the crossmember modified.
- Minor trimming to the engine crossmember might be required for track bar clearance (1/6″ – 1/4″).

This comprehensive kit not only provides everything you need for the swap but also outlines potential modifications, ensuring that buyers know exactly what to expect when fitting different vehicle models. Whether you’re working on a straightforward swap or tackling a more complex project, this kit aims to streamline the process while maintaining high quality and performance.

What specific adjustments might be needed for vehicle components?

Some vehicles might need minor trimming of the engine crossmember to ensure track bar clearance, with adjustments ranging from 1/6″ to 1/4″.

Are there any additional modifications required for certain models?

Yes, F150, Bronco, and 2WD trucks may require extra holes to be drilled and a 1/4″ shim added at the frame rail for the track bar bracket. Additionally, ZF5 trucks will need modifications to the crossmember.

Which specific vehicle models and years are compatible with the kit?

The kit is designed to be compatible with 1992-1997 F250 and F350 models. However, it can also be adapted for F150, Bronco, and 2WD trucks from 1980-1991 with additional adjustments.

Are there any modifications required for certain vehicle models when using the kit?

One of the complaints some high-horsepower OBS owners have with an ‘05+ Super Duty axle swap is the same front-end bouncing that occurs on ’05-newer trucks in four-wheel drive. To solve the problem, RYD Motorsportsoffers a short-arm four-link system. It keeps the front axle planted and improves stability and caster control during wheel travel. With a four-link system, you’re able to enjoy the improved ride quality the coil spring suspension provides without sacrificing traction during boosted, 4×4 launches.

However, when considering this upgrade, it’s crucial to be aware of the specific modifications needed for different vehicle models:

Compatibility Notes:
- Fits seamlessly with 1992-1997 F250 and F350 models.
- For F150, Bronco, and 80-91 2WD trucks, additional drilling is necessary. A 1/4″ shim at the frame rail may also be required for the track bar bracket.
- ZF5 trucks will need modifications to the crossmember.
- You might need minor trimming of the engine crossmember for track bar clearance, ranging from 1/6″ to 1/4″.

By addressing these specific requirements, you can ensure a smoother installation process, enhancing the performance benefits of your axle swap.

Is any trimming needed for the engine crossmember?

Yes, minor trimming may be necessary for track bar clearance, ranging from 1/6″ to 1/4″.

What modification is necessary for ZF5 trucks?

ZF5 trucks will require the crossmember to be modified.

What additional modifications are required for F150, Bronco, and 80-91 2WD trucks?

For these models, additional holes must be drilled, and a 1/4″ shim may be needed at the frame rail for the track bar bracket.

Which vehicle models does the kit fit without additional modifications?

The kit is compatible with 1992-1997 F250 and F350 models without requiring further changes.

What are the additional notes or considerations when purchasing the axle swap kit?

At a similar price point ($1,549.99), RYD Motorsports’ ‘05+ Super Duty axle swap kit is designed to retain and use all the factory parts from the ‘05+ suspension and steering in order to keep the swap process as straightforward as possible. The company’s kit includes stock height fabricated coil buckets (pictured), radius arm frame brackets, a track bar bracket, sway bar brackets, a pitman arm (which has been machined to accept Super Duty steering), and Grade 8 hardware. To minimize drilling, all brackets bolt in and locate using existing holes in the OBS frame.

Additional Considerations:

Raw Steel Shipping: The kit ships in raw steel, so be prepared for any necessary finishing or corrosion protection.
Drive Shaft Modifications: You might need to modify the drive shaft to fit the new setup, a crucial step for ensuring optimal performance.
Wheel Specifications: Your wheel bolt pattern will now be 8×170, requiring a minimum 17″ wheel. Check compatibility before purchase.
Customization Options: There’s no logo option available on the coil buckets. If preferred, leave a note under Order Special Instructions to request this.
Lead Time: Allow for a lead time of 1+ week when planning your project to accommodate for shipping and any unforeseen delays.

These additional notes are vital for ensuring a smooth installation process and achieving the best results from your axle swap kit. Planning ahead with these considerations will help you integrate the new components seamlessly into your vehicle.

What is the expected lead time for receiving the kit?

Allow for a lead time of at least one week before the kit is shipped.

Can I customize the appearance of the parts?

Yes, you can opt for no logo on the coil buckets by including a note with your order instructions.

What wheel specifications do I need to consider?

You will need to accommodate a wheel bolt pattern of 8×170, with a minimum wheel size of 17 inches.

Will any modifications be necessary?

Yes, you might need to modify the drive shaft to ensure proper fit and functionality.

In what condition will the kit be shipped?

The kit will be delivered in a raw steel condition, allowing for customization or finishing as desired.

Is there an option to add a crossmember to the axle swap kit?

What we really like to see is a company taking care of manual transmission OBS owners, and RYD Motorsports’ ZF-5 crossmember does exactly that. It’s designed to fit inside the frame rails of your OBS and use the same mounting holes as the company’s radius arms to ease the installation process. The crossmember loops over the top of the driveshaft, offers plenty of clearance, is CNC cut and bent, and is made from ¼-inch thick steel.

For those considering an axle swap kit, there is indeed an option to add a crossmember. Choose from:

BDD ZF5 Crossmember 2 1/4″ Center to center: An ideal fit for precise setups, priced at $549.99.
BDD ZF5 Crossmember 2 3/4″ Center to center: Offers slightly more flexibility in mounting, also priced at $549.99.

These options ensure that whether you’re looking for specific dimensions or robust support, the crossmember can be seamlessly integrated into your build, providing the perfect combination of strength and adaptability.

What is the cost of the crossmember add-on?

Each crossmember option is priced at an additional $549.99.

What are the specifications of the available crossmember options?

There are two crossmember options available with different center-to-center measurements: one at 2 1/4 inches and another at 2 3/4 inches.

Is there an option to add a crossmember?

Yes, the crossmember is available as an add-on option.