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[FastDEW]

The hub on both the SRW and the DRW axle both stick out 4" and they are both assembled with the 8 fasteners as you describe. This is what is refered to as a "Full-Float" design. A "Semi-Float" axle rides on the bearings in the case itself and the shafts are held in place by clips in the diff., Like you would see on most cars and 1/2 ton trucks.

Anyhow .... I talked with a freind today in Ford Econoline Lt. Truck vehicle Engineering group. He works in chassis and is extremely familiar with the E-series vans. He says that All Ford/Dana SRW axles on the E350 vans are rated at 7800lbs. The DRW axle is rated at 8000lbs. There is very little difference in the axle rating itself, the difference in load capacity for DRW and SRW E350's relates more to the extra wheels/tires and the heavier springs and brakes. He also said that Ford did at one time offer a school bus option on the SRW E350 with a DRW axle and DRW front end. This unit is described as being "strange" looking and using DRW style wheels on the front, which means the offset is positive rather than negative. Regardless of which axle you have, Ford never produced a 15 passanger E350 with an axle lighter than 7800lb rating, this according to an Econoline Chassis Engineer.

Hope this helps.

Dan

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99 PSD E350 VAN 3.55LS Club Wagon Chateau with Factory Rear Seat/Bed and Aluminum Wheels.
"Drive it like you stole it!"