My '98 Gen 2 3500 cab and chassis needs a new front axle. I found one in Texas but it is branded a 2002 which tells me Gen 3. Photos of the Texas truck clearly puts it as a Gen 2 and the differential is a Dana 60 which also tells me Gen 2. Question: Did Dodge carry the Gen 2 cab and chassis trucks into 2002?

 

I believe they did for the heavy duty models i.e. 2500, 3500 etc.

 

2002 was the first year for Gen 3 1500s

2002 was the last year for Gen 2 2500 and 3500s

2003 was the first year for Gen 3 2500 and 3500s

Dodge did the same roll out for Gen 4 (1500 is 09 and HD in 2010) and will again for Gen 5 (2019 1500 and 2020 for HD).

You can definitely use any 99-02 parts and even most 94-98.

 

'00-02 is a slightly wider diff, and uses a different knuckle design. The caliper is dual-piston, but the rotor has less swept area. Some report rotor problems when used heavy. The larger 3rdgen rotor and caliper bracket can be fitted, but you likely can't run a 16" wheel anymore.

It might be an idea to stick with a 94-99 diff for less surprises. Also better parts swapping from your old axle.

 

Thanks guys for your input. There is nothing available locally and since I'm going to use the entire assembly hub-to-hub I'm going to go with the one from Texas. u2slow: I'm not concerned with wheel/tire size or gear ratio because mine is a 2WD. Plus the truck itself looks in real good shape and it's not from the rust zone like here in the east. The price is good and they will ship for free. Wish me luck.

 

Where are you buying the axle from?

 

From a truck salvage yard somewhere in Texas. I used PayPal with ebay. Their security and policing is great... I know from experience.