Axle trusses add structural reinforcement across the axle tubes to prevent flex and bending. Brand-specific options for each axle type.
Any axle with thin-wall tubes (most stock axles) can bend or flex under heavy use with larger tires. A truss is a weld-on reinforcement plate that spans the differential housing and the axle tubes, increasing torsional and bending stiffness.
By axle:
Dana 30: IRO, Artec Industries, Ruff Stuff. $150-280. Weld-on, ~6-10 hours install.
Dana 35: Less commonly trussed (usually swapped instead). Artec and Ruff Stuff make them. $130-230.
Chrysler 8.25: Artec, Ruff Stuff. $200-260. Heavier housing than D35 but trussing still useful.
Ford 8.8: Artec, Ruff Stuff, IRO. $180-280. Especially common because the swap is so popular and trussing makes the rebuilt axle bulletproof.
Dana 44: Various. The D44 cast housing is already heavy; trusses are most useful on swapped/built D44s.
Welding: MIG with .035 wire is sufficient. Pre-heat tubes for better penetration. Take diff cover off before welding (heat can damage gears). Some trusses are tab-and-tab and require fitting; others are bolt-on with limited weld points.
Most effective at preventing the slight bending that happens to thin-walled stock axles under hard hits and 33"+ tires.
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Artec Industries D30 truss | Artec Industries | ~$230 |
| Artec Industries 8.8 truss | Artec Industries | ~$250 |
| Ruff Stuff D30 truss | Ruff Stuff | ~$150 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.