About Ford L6 Axle
The Ford L6 axle code refers to a specific rear axle ratio used in Ford F-150 trucks. The axle code “L6” corresponds to a 3.73 rear axle ratio.
The rear axle is responsible for delivering power to the driving wheels. It comes in two halves, known as half shafts, which are connected by the differential. In most cases, rear axles are live, meaning they rotate with the vehicle’s wheels. The main purpose of axles is to transfer power from the transmission to the wheels. As the axle turns, the wheels go around, and without a functioning axle, wheels do not move. Axles also serve to bear the weight of the vehicle and its passengers and cargo.
The Ford F-150 L6 axle code with a 3.73 gear ratio also includes an electronic locker. This means that the rear axle has a gear ratio of 3.73 with an electronic locker, which locks the gears in the differential together so that it will always drive both rear wheels. This is useful when off-road or in other situations with low traction. The 3.73 gear ratio is also suitable for all-around daily driving.
Different axle ratios are chosen based on specific needs, with some ratios being better for towing and others for driving on and off-road.
To identify the axle and gear ratio in a Ford truck, the door sticker can be checked. The area labeled (F) on the door sticker contains the Axle Code, which can be used to identify the specific axle and gear ratio.
In summary, the Ford L6 axle code refers to a specific rear axle ratio of 3.73 with an electronic locker, commonly used in Ford F-150 trucks.
Contents
How do I know what axle my truck has?
This stamped number can usually be found on the righthand side or on the longer axletube on the same side of the tube as the differential cover, facing the rear of the truck. The number can be used to identify the axle, the year of manufacture, and the model vehicle the axle originally came from.
What is axle code?
This code is used to record the layout and number of axles and wheels on vehicles. Non-driven axles are included (eg retractable, tag, lazy, pusher axles etc).
How do I find my axle code?
To find the axle code:
- View the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver’s side, front or rear door panel.
- Find the word “AXLE” under the bar code.
- Find the two-digit code under “AXLE.”
What axle does my F-150 have?
Mustangs, F150’s and other Fords can have their axle ratio easily identified by reading the sticker on the inside of the driver’s side door jamb.
How do I know if I have 8.8 or 9.75 rear end?
On the passenger’s side upper and lower corners, there’s two semi-circular divots that can easily be seen when looking at the cover from straight on. While the Super 8.8’s cover has a bulge for the ring gear, it’s not anywhere near as pronounced as the 9.75’s.
What do the axle numbers mean?
Axle ratios may be expressed in notation as something along the lines of “3.42:1,” or a “3.42 rear axle.” In either case, it essentially means the drive shaft and pinion need to rotate 3.42 times in order to rotate the axle shafts once.
What is a 6X2 axle?
What does 6X2 mean in a heavy Truck? If you are not sure what 6X2 means on a truck, it refers to the drive axle of the truck, to one wheel end. Meanwhile, 6X4 tractor, it is a truck with three axles , with a drivetrain delivering power to two wheel ends on two of them. Attached you will see different configurations.
What do axle numbers mean?
Axle ratios may be expressed in notation as something along the lines of “3.42:1,” or a “3.42 rear axle.” In either case, it essentially means the drive shaft and pinion need to rotate 3.42 times in order to rotate the axle shafts once.
How do I identify my Ford axle?
FORD AXLE IDENTIFICATION TAGS
The location of Ford identification tags will vary by model, but most are located on a carrier cover bolt. The Ring Gear Size (differential type) and the Gear Ratio will be printed on the tag (as well as whether or not the differential is limited slip).
What is a B6 axle?
Know that if your truck is equipped with a limited slip or locking differential, the rear axle codes displayed on the label will be “H9” for a 3.55 ratio, “B6” for a 3.73 ratio, and “L6” for a 3.73E rear axle ratio.
