DIFFERENTIAL EARLY AXLE DODGE

Early Axle Differential

For early 3/4-ton variant

★ Essential component for the restoration of early Dodge WC 3/4-ton lorries. The early differentials are less common than the later 9-5/8 inch version and require specific parts.

Application

This differential fits the early Dodge WC 3/4-ton models (G-502) produced between late 1941 and mid-1943. Early Command Cars (WC-56, WC-57, WC-58) and Weapons Carriers (WC-51, WC-52) initially had the smaller 8-3/4 inch differential with 2-pinion spider gears. Later production switched to the heavier 9-5/8 inch type with 4-pinion configuration. Not interchangeable with the larger late type without complete third member replacement.

Installation notes

Note: early and late differentials are NOT interchangeable. The 8-3/4 inch type has different bearing arrangements and bolt-on differential covers, whilst later 9-5/8 inch types have welded covers. During replacement, bearing caps must always be fitted in their original position and orientation (note stamped numbers). Available gear ratios: 4.89:1 for motorway use, 5.83:1 for off-road work. Use hypoid GL-5 gear oil in differentials.

Compatibility

ONLY for early 3/4-ton WC models with 8-3/4 inch rear axle. NOT compatible with: later 3/4-ton WC lorries with 9-5/8 inch differential (from mid-1943 onwards), 1/2-ton WC models (1941-1942 with smaller axles), 1-1/2-ton WC-62/63 6x6 models. The early 8-3/4 inch differentials use a 2-pinion spider gear setup, whilst later 9-5/8 inch types have a stronger 4-pinion configuration. Always verify the diameter of your ring gear before ordering parts.

Historical context

The Dodge WC-series underwent a thorough redesign in late 1941 whereby all models were upgraded to 3/4-ton classification (G-502). The early lorries initially retained the smaller 8-3/4 inch differential, but during the war a change was made to the more robust 9-5/8 inch type for increased reliability under harsh military conditions.