New Wrangler and Bronco Could Ride Alike

High-Tech Axles May Heat Up Battle Between New Ford Bronco and JL Wrangler

Rumor has it that the new Jeep Wrangler and new Ford Bronco will have a lot in common.

Okay, maybe not a lot, which probably wouldn’t go over too well with diehard Jeep fans. But the two SUVs will share a pretty essential part, critical to both vehicles’ off-road capabilities. According to an AutoWeek report, both the JL Wrangler and the come-back Bronco will ride on axles made in the very same plant.

Now, before all you Jeep fans start tossing around claims of espionage or betrayal, keep in mind that a lot of carmakers share parts made at the same plants. In fact, it’s a lot more common than most people think.

In the case of the upcoming next-gen Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, the two vehicles will be equipped with solid front and rear axles made by Dana. The AutoWeek reports also indicates that the Dana axles will feature the company’s latest AdvanTEK gear technology.

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We decided to dig a little more into that AdvanTEK gear technology. Here are a few of the key details about the axle technology that we pulled and summarized from Dana’s official website.

• Features like larger diameter pinion stem and narrow pinion bearing spread help to enhance the reliability of the pinions.
• Delivers more miles per gallon as one of the most efficient axles on the market.
• Enhances overall vehicle performance using unique engineering methods like building the pinion to position rather than pattern.
• Utilizes features like a wider drive gear face and differential gear tooth combination for improved durability.
• Provides for a quieter ride using dynamic backlash measurement and Belleville side gear thrust washers.

In short, all that adds up to some pretty capable off-road SUVs. Although we still stand by the assertion that the Ford Bronco will never measure up to the new Jeep Wrangler.