Dually Rearends

Understanding Dually Rearends: A Comprehensive Guide

The term “dually” refers to a truck with dual rear wheels on each side, making a total of four rear wheels. These trucks, known for their robustness and increased load capacity, are essential for heavy-duty applications such as towing and hauling. The rearend, or differential, plays a pivotal role in these trucks, ensuring power is efficiently delivered to the rear wheels. Here, we will delve into the intricacies of dually rearends, exploring various brands, their specific models, the differential systems that make them unique, and the process of rebuilding worn-out or damaged dually rearends.

What is a Dually Rearend?Rear view of a dually rear axle

A dually rearend refers to the differential and axle assembly designed to support the dual rear wheels. This configuration enhances stability, distributes weight more effectively, and provides better traction, especially when carrying heavy loads. The rearend must be robust and durable to handle the increased stress and weight associated with dually trucks.

Key Brands of Dually Trucks

Several major automotive brands manufacture dually trucks, each offering unique features and configurations. The most prominent brands include Dodge, Chevrolet (Chevy), and Ford. Let’s explore the rearend systems of some popular dually truck models from these brands.

Dodge Dually Trucks

Dodge, under the RAM brand, has been a significant player in the dually truck market. The RAM 3500 is one of the most well-known dually trucks, offering exceptional performance and durability.

RAM 3500

  • Axle and Differential: The RAM 3500 typically features a heavy-duty AAM 11.5″ rear axle. This axle is renowned for its strength and reliability, making it suitable for heavy towing and hauling tasks.
  • Performance: The RAM 3500 dually is powered by a Cummins turbo-diesel engine, capable of towing over 35,000 pounds when properly equipped. The robust rearend system ensures power is efficiently transmitted to the dual rear wheels, providing the necessary traction and stability.
  • Features: Advanced technology such as the integrated trailer brake controller and rear auto-level air suspension enhances towing capabilities and ride comfort.

Chevrolet (Chevy) Dually TrucksVehicles with dually axle carrying heavy equipment

Chevrolet, under the General Motors umbrella, offers a range of dually trucks known for their performance and innovation. The Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD is a flagship model in the dually category.

Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD

  • Axle and Differential: The Silverado 3500HD features a full-floating rear axle, typically the AAM 11.5″ or the newer AAM 14-bolt axle. These axles are designed to handle extreme loads and provide durability.
  • Performance: Equipped with the Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 engine, the Silverado 3500HD offers impressive towing capacity, reaching up to 36,000 pounds with the proper configuration.
  • Features: The truck includes features like the digital variable steering assist, which enhances control, especially when towing heavy loads. The rearend system, coupled with advanced towing technologies, ensures optimal performance.

Ford Dually Trucks

Ford is a leader in the truck industry, with its Super Duty series setting benchmarks for performance and reliability. The Ford F-350 Super Duty and the Ford F-450 Super Duty are prominent models in the dually lineup.

Ford F-350 Super Duty

  • Axle and Differential: The F-350 Super Duty is equipped with a Sterling 10.5″ or Dana 80 rear axle, depending on the configuration. These axles are known for their robustness and capability to handle heavy loads.
  • Performance: Powered by the Power Stroke 6.7L V8 Turbo Diesel engine, the F-350 can tow up to 35,750 pounds. The rearend system ensures the dual rear wheels receive balanced power distribution for enhanced stability.
  • Features: The F-350 includes features like the Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Trailer Reverse Guidance, making towing more manageable and safer.

Ford F-450 Super Duty

  • Axle and Differential: The F-450 Super Duty features the Dana S130 rear axle, designed specifically for heavy-duty applications. This axle offers superior strength and durability.
  • Performance: With the same Power Stroke 6.7L V8 Turbo Diesel engine, the F-450 pushes the boundaries with a towing capacity of up to 37,000 pounds.
  • Features: Advanced towing technologies, including the Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System, enhance the overall towing experience. The robust rearend ensures the truck can handle extreme loads with ease.

Rebuilding Worn-Out and Damaged Dually Rearendsreplacement axle on ground

Over time, the rearend of a dually truck can experience wear and tear, leading to reduced performance or failure. Rebuilding a worn-out or damaged rearend is a cost-effective solution that can restore the truck to its optimal performance.

Houston Rebuilt Axles specializes in rebuilding axles and rearends for a wide range of vehicles, including dually trucks. They offer expert services to ensure your rearend is rebuilt to meet or exceed original specifications.

Services Offered by Houston Rebuilt Axles

  • Inspection and Diagnosis: The process begins with a thorough inspection to diagnose the issues affecting the rearend. This includes checking for gear wear, bearing failure, and seal leaks.
  • Rebuilding Process: The team at Houston Rebuilt Axles uses high-quality parts and expert techniques to rebuild the rearend. This process includes replacing worn gears, bearings, and seals, ensuring the rebuilt rearend can handle heavy loads and provide reliable performance.
  • Quality Assurance: Every rebuilt rearend undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets stringent quality standards. This guarantees that the rearend will perform reliably under heavy-duty conditions.
  • Customer Support: Houston Rebuilt Axles provides excellent customer support, guiding you through the rebuilding process and offering maintenance tips to extend the life of your rebuilt rearend.

For more information on their services and to explore their offerings, visit Houston Rebuilt Axles.

Importance of Maintaining Dually Rearendsdifferential fluid being drained

Maintaining the rearend of a dually truck is crucial for ensuring its longevity and performance. Regular inspection and maintenance can prevent issues such as:

  • Gear Wear: Continuous heavy loads can cause wear on the differential gears. Regular fluid changes and inspections can mitigate this.
  • Bearing Failure: Bearings in the rearend can wear out over time. Ensuring proper lubrication and timely replacements can prevent failures.
  • Seal Leaks: Leaks in the differential seals can lead to fluid loss, causing inadequate lubrication. Regular checks can identify and fix leaks early.

Dually Rearends by Houston Rebuilt Axles

Dually rearends are a critical component in the functionality of dually trucks, providing the necessary support for heavy-duty tasks. Brands like Dodge, Chevrolet, and Ford offer a range of dually trucks, each with unique rearend systems designed to handle extreme loads and provide superior performance. By understanding the specific features and maintenance requirements of these rearends, owners can ensure their dually trucks remain reliable and efficient for years to come.

Whether you’re towing a heavy trailer or carrying substantial payloads, the robust design and engineering of dually rearends ensure that these trucks can meet the demands of any task. When it comes to rebuilding worn-out or damaged rearends, Houston Rebuilt Axles provides expert services to restore your truck’s performance and reliability.