I believe the 2002 1500 went to the AAM front axle instead of the DANA 44.
The 2003 2500, 3500 followed with the switch to AAM.
I don't think they are direct bolt in with the DANAs though.

 

In 2002, I believe the 1500 went IFS, however the 2500 and up still used the 2nd gen body style and suspension pieces. Dodge switched completely in 2003 to the 3rd gen body.

 

i have a 96 1500 and i would like to drop some dana 70's off of a 2500 in my truck, so i have the same question

 

I have a 2001 reg cab long box 2500. I have thought about shortening it, from time to time (not too seriously), to reg cab short box.

I was thinking it would just take cutting/welding the frame, new brake line, fuel line, finagle the gas tank, new rear drive shaft, and drop on a used short box (or custom flat bed).

Anybody attempt this, or know someone who has?

Almost sounds easier than swapping axles, brakes, master cylinder, and steering (to get dana 60s with discs for an older 1500 4x4).

Seems like the details might be easier to work out starting with a late model 2500.

Sorry for the thread hi-jack.

 

The steering all bolts the same as a 1500. Your brake lines will hook right up to calipers and everything. The front is 100% direct swap aside from the front driveshaft which might fit. If not there's a few companies who make conversion joints. The rear is a little different. If you find a 94-96 "lightduty" 2500 the rear leafs are the same 2.5" ones in the 1500's. Most of these had the 9.25 just with 8 lugs but some had d60's. Other than being able to run bigger gears the D60 rear really isn't any better than the 9.25 IMO.