Axle Trusses

By definition, a truss is a supportive device, a framework typically used for reinforcement. So why would you need a truss for an axle assembly, which is already generally considered a pretty sturdy component? Well, as long as you confine your driving to smooth streets and run stock size wheels and tires, your axle assemblies will most likely be trouble-free, but subject your rig to the pounding of aggressive off-roading over rugged terrain, especially with oversize wheels and tires, and your axles will need beefing up, with the kind of strength and support you can only get from our axle trusses.

Significant force applied to the tire at the end of the axle, such as happens when a rock or rut is hit at speed, with the weight of the vehicle supported by the suspension exerting pressure in the other direction elsewhere on the axle, and the axle tube can bend in between or at a weak point - usually where the tube attaches to the differential housing. Bolt on bigger and heavier tires and maybe get airborne over an obstacle at speed, and those forces are just compounded. Bent axle tubes can result in axle bearing failure, broken axles and even ring and pinion breakage.

An axle truss is the solution to bent axle problems. An axle truss mounts to the differential and axle tubes, reinforcing the axle assembly to keep the tubes and differential in proper alignment and prevent the bending and deflection that can be caused by the extreme shock loads typically encountered off-roading. We offer axle trusses in many different configurations for all popular axles including Dana 30, 35, 44, and 60 axles, Ford 8.8” and 9” axles, and GM 10.5” 14-bolt axles. While we offer some bolt-on axle trusses, the majority of our axle trusses must be welded to the axle assembly. Installation by an experienced welder is recommended. Axle tubes are generally made of mild steel, while differential housings are typically cast iron, and the truss must be welded to both materials.

Although there are many different axle truss designs, they can all be generally grouped into two categories, over the axle trusses and under the axle trusses. The type that’s best for your rig depends on how you use your vehicle and how it’s set up. Under the axle trusses should be used where ground clearance isn’t an issue, and when there isn’t sufficient clearance above the axle for an over the axle truss. For example, on rigs that aren’t lifted or have only a small lift, there may not be room between the axle and the underbody for an over the axle truss, and the truss could also interfere with steering linkage and/or the oil pan. When you need the ground clearance for rock crawling and the vehicle has a lift kit that provides enough clearance above the axle, an over the axle truss is the way to go.

One of the downsides to an over the axle truss is that brackets for control arms and track bars, and shock mounts and spring perches, often have to be cut off to install the truss, and then reinstalled. However, some trusses come in kits that include new brackets, and we also offer brackets and mounts separately. We have trusses that work with your OE suspension, but installing a truss can also neatly coincide with a suspension upgrade or a change in suspension design. We offer brackets that allow you to relocate the track bar or make other suspension mods. We also have trusses specifically designed for 4-link suspension setups that include the top control arm mounts, as well as trusses that attach to an included differential cover for even more strength.