1 TON - APEX Front Superduty 60 1999-2004 Differential Top Cap

This heavy duty top cap weld directly to the differential casting for the Super Duty front 60 1999-2004 axle

to allow mounting of driver side upper control arm brackets.

Stronger Design, Lighter Weight, Easier Install

A NEW ERA HAS BEGUN WITH THE ARRIVAL OF THE APEX TRUSS! Artec Industries is proud to announce the next generation of PATENT PENDING axle trusses. This series of trusses not only builds on our experience as the world leader in axle truss design, it brings it to a whole new level of cost savings, strength, weight savings, simplicity of installation, precision fitment, and complete axle protection never before seen in the industry.

The key feature that sets the APEX truss apart is its unique peaked shape top which provides extra rigidity to the whole truss while allowing both a reduction in weight (vs using a thicker material top) and eliminating long weld seams. Previous version with long weld seams which can be lead to extra weld warping of the axle, longer install times and can be inconsistent. Without long seams to weld, now you drop the truss directly on to the axle and weld it to the axle faster.

Shown below on kits JL6541 and JL6542. The Top Cap is included in those kits but some may want to buy the Top Cap if they purchased JL6543, in which the Top Cap is not included.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

The Front 60 that works with this kit is from Ford Superduty F-250 and F-350 trucks from model years 1999-2004 (leaf spring). This truss is not intended for other year axles due to different differential offsets and casting contours.

Only works with Front APEX Truss JL6540 which is in kits JL6541, JL6542, or JL6543. Uses JL6500 UCA brackets for mounting bushings or Johnny Joints.

Trimming of the factory differential casting will be necessary (see instructions). Other fabrication and modifications may be needed due to variances in lift kits and other factors. Differential casting will need to be trimmed along the top edge right under the UCA slots on the truss at a 45 degree angle approximately 1/4" deep. Test Top Cap on diff first and if it doesn't sit flush on the edges, check for casting protrusions

Features include:

PATENT PENDING APEX Truss peaked top design provides more rigidity than a flat top truss design
CNC Precision Laser cut in-house from 1/4" mild steel for a strong solution
CNC Precision Bent in-house for a great fitment. Literally drop the Top Cap in place on the axle and it's ready to weld. No puzzle piece assembling*
Designed used 3D models directly from Ford and Jeep for not only an amazing fit but clearances with surrounding components
70% less welding needed than previous truss designs means less warping, faster turnaround, and lower costs
All long seams are bent so you don't need to spend time welding them together
Contours the cast steel differential and can be welded with normal MIG welder and moderate pre-heating and post-heating**
OEM location Upper Control Arms jig holes on Top Cap
Overall low profile design means your axle is stronger, sleeker, easier to fit into any vehicle, and less likely to interfere with vehicle components.***

NOTE: This kit requires general welding and fabrication skills. Welding should only be done by a competent welder who understand different materials. Some welding of cast and mild steel will be used. Artec Industries implies no guarantees or warranties and is not liable for improper installation.

*Some grinding and fitment may be required when installing this kit. Every axle varies slightly and some fabrication may be required. Will require brake line relocation to fit.

**Some versions of this axle have a hump on top of the differential which may need to be ground down. Test Top Cap on diff first and if it doesn't sit flush on the edges, check for casting protrusions.

*** In rare and extreme cases, the truss may come into contact with oil pan. Prior to operating the vehicle, remove the coil springs, cycle the suspension including full compression of both sides simultaneously and add bumpstop extensions to prevent damage to oil pan.

1 TON - APEX Front SD Differential Top Cap 1999-2004