Dana 60 1979 vs 1988

[Gacory]

Which is a better option?

Been searching on here, pirate and Craigslist for
awhile. Finally found a 1979 dana 60 for $1200, then found a 1988 dana 60 for $750. Being the cheap ass that I am, I'm leaning on the '88
But was wondering which would be the better deal. Obviously would try to get either cheaper.

I've got a 1997 tj going to swap in a e350 van 60 in the rear of that helps!

 

[TBItoy]

Re:

The only difference is the location of the diff.

If you can deal with the diff being closer to the knuckle, then run the cheaper axle.

 

[rock mafia]

If you want to run coil springs you are alot better off with the 78-79, it has about 6" of axle tube on the short side. The newer fords only have about 3" and it's hard to get coils on them. It's tight to get 2 5/8" wide link joints on them. If you are using coilovers the newer one will work ok