I am researching a SFA conversion. What's better on the axle, the original king pin set up like the original '79 Ford, or ball joints? There must be advantages to each. Thanks. Yes this is for a 2500HD!

the king pin set up it the way to go.

Well my 1990 GMC with a SAS, is a '79 ford axle KINGPIN...

Generally, Kingpin's are stronger and have better durability characteristics, such as handling larger tires, more offset wheels, hydralic steering, etc... Downside is more maintence to check the shimming and keep them nice and tight and greased up!!!!

Ball-joints.... Easier to change , but wear quicker... You cna also visually check Ball-joint without removeing the Kingpin cap for example!!!!

The ball-joints seem to handle large tires fairly well, many rockcrawlers use them even in rear steer applications!!!

Its basically your choice!!!

Kingpin axles are cheaper to put steering on (crossover), and generally last longer that ball joints. There really isn't a major difference between the two, my last truck had kingpins, my new one has ball joints. It all just depends on what will work better for your situation. Since you're truck is an HD, you have to get a 77-79 Ford D60 (kingpin) if you plan to use the ORU conversion kit. Even if you don't use the kit, your frame width is right on 32-33", so you want that axle. If you want to run a balljoint front end, you will need a custom built axle. Eitehr from scratch (ORU or Dynatrac) or have a 92-97 Ford D60 retubed to 32.5" spring pad width.

a dana 44hd in the 77-79 f250 will also work and will have the same spring perch width and has a high pinion.

would a d44 really hold up under the weight tho??

would a d44 really hold up under the weight tho??

probably not. d44 seems like a waste of time. i think the torque would get it too.

Don't bother with the 44. Our kit doesn't work with it anyway.

Don't bother with the 44. Our kit doesn't work with it anyway.

Not to mention that you will strip the ring gear out the minute you get into a bind on pretty much any surface. This seems to be one of the weak spots on pre 03 Ford trucks.

Not to mention that you will strip the ring gear out the minute you get into a bind on pretty much any surface. This seems to be one of the weak spots on pre 03 Ford trucks.

Usually you blow U-joints, stub shafts, and Lock-outs before you blow a HP D44's ring-gear!!!!

Shock Load usually kills them first!!!

Either way, with a Heavy truck and Lots of Hp/TQ. a D44 isn't the best idea, HighPinion or Not!!!

Thanks everyone for the info. Looks like it's kingpins for me!;)