The axle code found on the VC Label inside the drivers side door jamb of '92-'96 F-Series and Broncos is relatively easy to decipher (this may apply to older trucks as well, but I don't know for certain).

Each digit means something.

The first digit in the axle code tells you if it's Limited Slip (Posi) or not, and it's (the rear end's) weight capacity. Deciphering the weight capacity code is too complex to explain, but whether or not it's Limited Slip is easy. If the first digit of the axle code is a letter, it's Limited Slip. If it's a number, it's a one-legger. The actual letter or number specifies the rear end weight capacity.

The second digit tells you the gear ratio.

All that have a second digit that is a:
8 have 3.08 gears,
7 have 3.31 gears,
9 have 3.55 gears,
5 have 4.10 gears.

For example, all axle codes that start with a letter, and are followed by a 9 have a Posi 3.55 rear end, while all axle codes that start with a number, and are followed by a 9 have a one-legger 3.55 rear end.

The only exception I am aware of is the code W5, which is a 4.00:1 one-legger rear end with an 8250 lbs. capacity.

Other one-legger rear ends include axle code:
12 which has 2.73 gears and is rated at 3800 lbs.,
72 which has 4.63 gears and is rated at 11,000 lbs.,
73 which has 5.13 gears and is rated at 11,000 lbs.

4x4's that have a Limited Slip front axle will have a third digit in the axle code, usually a "2".

So, H92 would mean it was a 4x4 with 3.55 gears, and that both axles were Limited Slip.

FWIW, all Ford truck/van axle codes follow the first digit rule (letter = posi, number = non-posi) EXCEPT for the previously mentioned F-Series/Bronco axle code W5, and the Aerostar axle code 22 (4.10 posi).

I hope this helps with any junkyard trips or simple curiosity. I tried to make it as simple as I could. It's really not tough, once you get the hang of it.

Take care,
-Chris

 

PKRWUD: You said "So, H92 would mean it was a 4x4 with 3.55 gears, and that both axles were Limited Slip. "

I checked my axle code at lunch and it is H9B. Does this mean I have LS up front?

Thanks!

PS. My watch is started so you have 10 minutes. It's 2:47 EST.

 

Oh sure, wait until I go out on a job, and then ask me a question and time me. I see how you are.

You are correct. Your axle code, H9B, means that you have 3.55 gears, and both front and rear axles are Limited Slip. That's a good thing.
Also, your rear axle capacity is 3800 lbs.

Take care,
-Chris

 

Thanks!!!

I guess I can forget about the lockers. I know they are sturdier and trully lock the wheels but I don't really need all that. I'm a light duty off-roader. Can't afford to tear up my primary ride. Just like to hit trails when I can.

I had heard that Ford put LS on front axles but I thought that ended sometime in the 80's.

I'm more happy with my 'new' truck everyday. I actually found a reg cab, short bed 4x4 auto w/351. I knew it was 3.55LS but I didn't know the front was LS too. I also have the manual hubs, which I'm glad about too. I just can't wait to get my superchip and exhaust.

 

Thanks PKRWUD..I've always wondered what gears I have. (3.31) would it be possible to make it POSI..like with a kit or something?

 

Of course. Any 4x4 dealer will have limited slip differentials and lockers, with varying degrees of traction. They come from mild to wild, the more wild being a little less street friendly but better off road. If you just have a 2 wheel drive, you can buy a diff. for just the rear, or if you have a 4x4, you can get them from both the front and the rear, or just one for the rear. Also, if you were thinking of getting lower gears (like if you towed a lot or if you have a 4x4 and wanted bigger tires) this would also be a good time to do a gear swap.

 

I'm a little confused. Where on the tag is this code? Is it 2 or 3 digits or more?

Heres some stuff near the bottom of my tag.
MB Type-GVM BODY TRANS
139 X143 GJM T
Axle TAPE SPRINGS
19 P D7

 

GJM is under Body
T is under trans
P is under Tape
D7 is under Springs

 

X143 means it's a F-150 4x4 w/ a 6250 lbs. GVWR and a 139" wheelbase

139 confirms the wheelbase

GJM means it has a cloth split bench seat, and that it's a styleside supercab

I don't show a listing for a "T" trans.

P means that if it's tutone, it's supposed to be "Tobago Green/Oxford White"

D7 just tells what part number the springs are.

19 means you have 3.55 gears, but both your front and rear axles are non limited slip.

Take care,
-Chris

 

Thanks.
Tho the color of my truck is maroon and silver, with a regular straight side bed ex-cab. Seems kinda numb for 3.55 gears. Maybe I need 4.10 !
I had our local carfax guru run my numbers and it said it was clean even though i know its been in 2 accidents. One was significant resulting in 2500 damage, the other resulted in my new smittybilt front bumper
Thanks again

 

Bump for kook

 

My Truck is 4x4, my tag says H9, so this means 3.55 Posi Front and Rear?

 

Your front axle isn't posi. If it was, the code would be H92. Otherwise, you are correct.

 

I checked, and my axle code was 18, meaning I have the 3.08 gears. With the i6 motor and the Mazda 4 speed w/OD (2wd) what would the towing capacity be? I was guessing somewhere around 4000, but anyone know for sure?

 

If it's a regular cab, your max trailer weight is 2300 lbs.

If it's a supercab, your max trailer weight is 2000 lbs.