Are straight axle trucks stronger/tougher than independent suspension trucks? Seems all GM truck did away with straight axles and Ford only sell has them on the F250 models and up.
This Site Might Help You. RE: Straight axle trucks verses independent suspension trucks? Are straight axle trucks stronger/tougher than independent suspension trucks? Seems all GM truck did away with straight axles and Ford only sell has them on the F250 models and up.
It seems that most off road people perfer the straight axle. I think it is because they are easier to modify. Truck Trend had article sometime in the spring about this. They basically said that the independent is just as good. I use my 4X4 for outer beach use. I have a s-10 crew cab right now. It performs great. I owned a 95 Dodge dakota. I put 156k on that with alot 4X4 use. Again no problems. When I say use it I mean at least 1-3 days a week. I am not one of those who drive a 4X4 for no reason, Other then to put 22s on. Thats why I have a car for normal use. Better gas miles.
Serious off-roaders prefer solid axles for reasons of strength and better articulation. Solid axles are far superior in strength and reliability when you are talking about trail use. This is important when you are romping around 30 miles from civilized roads. IFS has more parts to break, and is more closely calculated to tolerate a specific load. The reality is that IFS is the dominant 4x4 suspension system in new SUV's and trucks for it's street manners. Not, for it's off road capabilities. The manufacturers know that only a very small percentage of their 4x4's ever get off road more than on a Forest Service road. If you start searching the net relative to IFS performance upgrades on newer 4x4's, you will find countless very expensive aftermarket parts designed to strengthen OEM designs. If your priority is off road performance, you're better off with a solid axle up front. Now, if you are running an all stock drivetrain and tire sizes, and don't do any serious off roading, your IFS should hold up just fine. But, start doing the stuff they love to show in commercials, and you may be busting up some very expensive parts.
