Overview
The Artec Industries JK6042 is a front axle swap kit for Dana 60 axles, with a heavy duty truss and bracket system that reinforces the whole axle. The kit is for 2007 to 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK models and is sold as the JK 1 Ton Superduty front Dana 60 swap kit with Currie Johnny Joints.
The 1/4 inch thick truss has link brackets built in, so the factory link, spring, anti-sway bar and shock locations are provided with the truss. The brackets fit into place where they need to be once the truss is tack welded and placed on the axle. The kit is designed for Dana 60 axles only; Dana 44 axles were also available in those model years, so confirm the axle before you start.
Key features
- 1/4 inch thick truss that strengthens the axle and carries the link brackets
- Factory link, spring, anti-sway bar and shock locations included in the bracket system
- Link mounts built into the truss, which Artec says avoids hours of trial and error compared with other bracket systems
- Designed for front Dana 60 axles from Ford 3/4 and 1 ton trucks
- Flexible-joint lower control arms, such as heims or Johnny Joints, may avoid some modifications
Steering and suspension changes
A Dana 60 swap changes the steering and suspension geometry in several places, so the work reaches beyond the truss itself. Lower control arm brackets sit wider than factory, and upper arm brackets sit higher. Plan for adjustable upper arms and lower control arm modifications before the swap begins.
Steering geometry also changes. Bumpstop extensions and a new track bar are often needed, and the steering must be checked through full lock and full travel once the axle is in place. Kingpin axles suit high steer arms, so compare the axle style before you buy parts.
Brakes, steering and wheels are often separate purchases in a swap, so build a parts list early. Check the axle tube lengths before welding, and have a qualified welder complete any structural work. After the first drives, inspect the bushings, track bar mounts and bumpstops for wear.
Specifications
| Brand | Artec Industries |
|---|---|
| Part number | A/IJK6042 |
| Axle | Front Dana 60 |
| Truss thickness | 1/4 inch |
| Axle model years (Ford 3/4 and 1 ton trucks) | 85 to 91.5 (kingpin) and 92 to 97 (ball joint) |
| Axle tube check | 3.0 inch driver side and 24.5 inch passenger side |
| Wheel bolt pattern | Dana 60 does not match the factory JK 5 lug pattern |
Vehicle fitment
The kit is for 2007 to 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, covering 2-door and Unlimited (4-door) models including Rubicon, Sahara, Sport, Sport S, X, 70th Anniversary and 75th Anniversary trims.
The title’s Superduty (99-04) reference does not match the Wrangler JK fitment, so confirm the axle source before ordering. JL and Gladiator models are not on this list. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Tack weld the truss together, then place it on the axle. Lower control arm brackets sit wider than factory and upper control arm brackets sit higher, so lower control arm modifications and adjustable upper arms may be needed. Expect bumpstop extensions and a new track bar, because the steering geometry differs from the factory axle, and a Kingpin axle is recommended so high steer arms can be used.
Check the axle tube lengths of 3.0 inch and 24.5 inch before welding, and have a qualified welder complete the work.
What’s included
The truss and bracket system with the factory link, spring, anti-sway bar and shock locations. Currie Johnny Joints are part of this kit, so confirm their count before ordering.
Not included: brake and steering components, and wheels that match the Dana 60 bolt pattern.
