A Springless Dana 60 High Steer setup is a serious upgrade for builders running a kingpin Dana 60 in a demanding off-road application. By moving the steering linkage higher and replacing the factory kingpin spring arrangement with controlled preload, a springless design can provide additional steering clearance while giving the builder more control over the kingpin assembly. This approach is especially useful for lifted trucks, rock crawlers, and custom 1-ton builds where steering strength and axle clearance matter.
Modern high-steer systems are commonly designed around the kingpin Dana 60 platform, with springless arms allowing preload to be manually adjusted instead of relying on the factory spring.
What Is a Springless Dana 60 High Steer System?
A traditional kingpin Dana 60 uses a spring inside the upper kingpin assembly to provide preload. A springless high-steer conversion changes that arrangement by using a steering arm and adjustable preload hardware to control the kingpin assembly.
The steering arms mount on top of the Dana 60 knuckles, raising the steering linkage above the axle. This is the fundamental difference between conventional steering and high steer.
For serious trail use, that higher position can help reduce the chance of the steering linkage contacting rocks, obstacles, or other components below the axle.
A springless design also removes several factory kingpin components and replaces the spring-based preload arrangement with an adjustable system.
Why Choose Springless High Steer on a Dana 60?
Increased Steering Clearance
One of the biggest advantages of a Dana 60 high steer kit is improved clearance beneath the axle.
Traditional steering components can sit relatively low and become vulnerable when a truck is crawling over rocks. Moving the tie rod and crossover steering linkage higher can create more usable clearance around the axle housing.
This makes a springless Dana 60 high steer setup particularly attractive for rock-crawling trucks and lifted 4x4s.
Controlled Kingpin Preload
Instead of depending entirely on the factory spring, springless systems use adjustable hardware to establish kingpin preload.
That allows the builder to fine-tune the assembly during installation and maintenance. The correct procedure depends on the specific steering arm and bushing design being used, so preload should always be set according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Some springless systems use bronze bushings as part of the conversion, providing a serviceable alternative to the factory-style spring arrangement.
Better Suitability for Hard Off-Road Use
A Dana 60 is often selected because of its strength and availability for heavy-duty builds. Once the axle is equipped with large tires, increased suspension travel, and aggressive steering geometry, the steering components need to be selected with the rest of the vehicle in mind.
A properly matched Dana 60 crossover steering kit can provide a stronger and more practical steering layout than retaining a stock-style arrangement.
Springless Dana 60 High Steer vs. Traditional High Steer
The main distinction is how the kingpin preload is maintained.
A traditional setup uses the factory-style spring and related components. A springless setup eliminates the spring and uses an adjustable preload arrangement.
This does not mean that every springless system is automatically stronger or better for every vehicle. The axle version, knuckle configuration, steering arm design, tire size, suspension geometry, and steering linkage all need to be considered.
For a purpose-built off-road truck, however, springless high steer can provide an appealing combination of clearance and adjustability.
Dana 60 Crossover Steering and High-Steer Geometry
High steer and crossover steering are closely related but describe different aspects of the system.
Crossover steering changes the steering linkage arrangement so the steering motion can be transferred from the steering box to the opposite-side knuckle through a drag link.
High steer refers primarily to moving the steering linkage mounting points higher on the knuckles.
When these concepts are combined, the result is a Dana 60 kingpin crossover steering configuration that can place the tie rod and drag link higher while providing a more suitable layout for a modified solid-axle vehicle.
The exact geometry still needs to be checked at full steering lock and throughout suspension travel. High-steer components should not simply be installed without verifying clearance between the drag link, tie rod, differential, springs, shocks, frame, and other suspension components.
What Makes a Dana 60 High Steer Kit Heavy Duty?
A complete Dana 60 steering kit should be evaluated as a system rather than by the steering arms alone.
Important considerations include:
- Steering arm material and thickness
- Number and strength of mounting studs
- Kingpin bushing configuration
- Tie rod end specifications
- Drag link end specifications
- Steering arm hole placement
- Taper compatibility
- Steering box compatibility
- Available suspension clearance
- Proper preload adjustment
For a demanding truck, components such as billet Dana 60 steering arms, heavy-duty tie rod ends, and properly sized steering links can make a substantial difference.
1.25 Inch Thick Dana 60 Arms
Heavy-duty builds often use thick steering arms to handle the loads generated by large tires and aggressive off-road use.
A 1.25 inch thick Dana 60 arm provides substantial material around the mounting and steering-link areas. The exact strength of any steering arm depends on its material, machining, geometry, mounting method, and application—not thickness alone.
5 Hole Dana 60 Steering Arms
Some high-steer arms use multiple mounting holes to provide additional configuration options.
Five-hole Dana 60 steering arms may also be designed around specific aftermarket knuckle configurations. Always verify the arm pattern and stud arrangement against the actual axle and knuckle before purchasing.
Bronze Bushings and Springless Dana 60 High Steer
The product focus here is a Dana 60 high steer crossover steering kit with bronze kingpin bushings.
Bronze bushings are commonly used as an upgrade or replacement option in kingpin Dana 60 applications. A springless configuration allows the builder to establish preload mechanically rather than relying on the factory spring.
This is particularly relevant when building a heavy-duty axle intended for larger tires and repeated off-road use.
The key is correct setup. A springless system requires proper preload adjustment and periodic inspection. Some manufacturers recommend checking preload as part of routine maintenance.
What Should Be Included in a Dana 60 High Steer Setup?
A complete build may include several components depending on the specific configuration.
High-Steer Arms
The arms provide the elevated mounting locations for the steering linkage and are one of the most important components of the conversion.
Kingpin Bushings
The bushing configuration is critical to the operation of the kingpin assembly. Bronze options can be used in appropriate applications where a springless setup is being installed.
Steering Linkage
The drag link and tie rod must be correctly sized and matched to the steering arms.
For example, an ES2026R drag link kit, ES2027L drag link end, or ES2234L/ES2234R tie rod ends may be used in certain GM-style steering configurations, depending on the complete system.
Studs and Hardware
The high-steer arms need properly matched mounting hardware. High-strength studs and nuts should be installed and torqued according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Springless Dana 60 High Steer Installation Considerations
Installation should begin with identifying the exact Dana 60 axle and knuckle configuration.
Step 1: Confirm Axle Compatibility
Verify that the axle is the correct kingpin-style Dana 60 configuration for the selected steering arms.
Do not assume that every Dana 60 uses the same knuckle, steering arm, or kingpin arrangement.
Step 2: Inspect the Kingpin Assembly
Before installing new components, inspect the existing kingpins, bushings, knuckles, and related hardware.
Any worn or damaged components should be addressed before the high-steer conversion is put into service.
Step 3: Install the Springless Components
The factory spring arrangement is replaced by the springless preload system. The exact installation process varies by kit.
Step 4: Set Kingpin Preload
Preload is one of the most important parts of the installation.
Some manufacturers use a set screw and preload washer arrangement and specify a particular pull force or torque as a starting point.
Follow the instructions supplied with the exact kit rather than applying a generic preload specification.
Step 5: Check Steering Geometry
Cycle the suspension and steering from lock to lock.
Check for interference between:
- Drag link and differential
- Tie rod and axle housing
- Steering linkage and springs
- Steering linkage and shocks
- Tires and steering components
- Pitman arm and frame
- Steering shaft and surrounding components
This step is especially important on lifted trucks.
When Is a Springless Dana 60 High Steer Upgrade Worth Considering?
A springless setup makes the most sense when the vehicle is being built around a kingpin Dana 60 and requires improved steering clearance, heavy-duty steering components, or adjustable kingpin preload.
It can be particularly attractive for:
- Rock crawlers
- Full-size Chevy and GMC trucks
- K20 and K30 builds
- Heavy-duty 1-ton rigs
- Lifted solid-axle trucks
- Custom off-road vehicles
- Large-tire applications
- Dana 60 kingpin conversions
If you are specifically looking for a complete solution, the East West Offroad Dana 60 springless high-steer kit combines the high-steer crossover concept with bronze kingpin bushings for a purpose-built Dana 60 application.
Springless Dana 60 High Steer for GM 1-Ton Builds
Older GM 1-ton trucks are a popular platform for Dana 60 swaps and heavy-duty suspension builds.
A GM 1 ton steering kit can be paired with a suitable Dana 60 high-steer arrangement, but the steering box, pitman arm, drag link length, tie rod location, and suspension configuration all need to work together.
Some Chevrolet crossover steering configurations require a compatible 2WD steering box or other steering-box changes. The exact requirements depend on the chassis and steering system being used.
This is why a complete steering system should be planned before fabrication begins.
Choosing the Right Dana 60 High Steer Kit
Before purchasing, check these factors:
- Dana 60 type: Confirm kingpin versus ball-joint configuration.
- Knuckle compatibility: Verify the steering-arm mounting pattern.
- Tie rod taper: Match the arm taper to the selected tie rod ends.
- Drag link location: Make sure the pitman arm and steering arm geometry work together.
- Tire size: Larger tires increase steering loads.
- Suspension lift: Verify drag-link and track-bar geometry.
- Clearance: Check the full range of steering and suspension movement.
- Maintenance: Understand the preload adjustment and inspection requirements.
For builders who want a springless configuration rather than a factory-style kingpin spring setup, the Dana 60 high steer crossover steering kit with bronze bushings is designed around this type of application.
Why Choose a Complete East West Offroad Dana 60 Kit?
Piecing together steering arms, kingpin bushings, tie rod ends, drag link components, studs, and other hardware individually can create compatibility issues.
A complete East West Offroad Dana 60 kit provides a more straightforward starting point for a dedicated Dana 60 high-steer build.
The important advantage is not simply having more parts—it is making sure the components are selected to work as one steering system.
For builders upgrading a kingpin Dana 60 for serious off-road use, the springless Dana 60 high steer kit is a practical option to consider when increased steering clearance and adjustable kingpin preload are priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Springless Dana 60 High Steer?
A springless Dana 60 high steer conversion replaces the factory kingpin spring arrangement with an adjustable preload system while relocating steering linkage to high-steer arms mounted on the knuckles.
Why eliminate the Dana 60 kingpin spring?
A springless system allows the kingpin preload to be controlled mechanically rather than relying on the factory spring. This can be useful for demanding off-road applications, particularly when larger tires and high-steer components are being used.
Does springless high steer work with a kingpin Dana 60?
Yes, springless high-steer systems are specifically available for kingpin-style Dana 60 axles. However, compatibility must be verified for the specific axle, knuckle, and steering arm configuration.
Does a Dana 60 high steer kit improve ground clearance?
Moving the steering linkage higher can provide additional clearance beneath the axle compared with lower-mounted steering components. Actual clearance depends on the complete suspension and steering configuration.
Are bronze bushings better for a Dana 60 kingpin?
Bronze bushings are a popular upgrade option for kingpin Dana 60 assemblies. Their suitability depends on the axle, application, preload setup, and manufacturer's specifications.
Do springless high-steer arms require maintenance?
Yes. Springless systems use adjustable preload, so the setting should be checked periodically and maintained according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Can I use a springless Dana 60 high steer kit on any Dana 60?
No. Dana 60 axles vary by manufacturer, generation, knuckle design, and kingpin or ball-joint configuration. Confirm compatibility before ordering.
Is high steer suitable for a lifted Chevy truck?
High steer can be a strong option for lifted solid-axle Chevy trucks, but steering geometry must be considered carefully. Drag-link angle, track-bar relationship, pitman arm position, suspension travel, and clearance all affect the final setup.
What size tires benefit from a springless Dana 60 setup?
There is no universal tire-size cutoff. Larger and heavier tires generally place greater loads on steering and kingpin components, making proper component selection and preload particularly important.
Does this kit include DOM steering tubes?
The product described here is the Dana 60 High Steer Crossover Steering Kit with Bronze Kingpin Bushings. Verify the current product configuration and included components before ordering if you specifically need DOM tubing or complete steering links.
Final Thoughts
A Springless Dana 60 High Steer conversion is more than simply moving the steering linkage higher. It changes how the kingpin assembly is preloaded while creating a high-mounted crossover steering arrangement designed for demanding solid-axle applications.
For a properly matched kingpin Dana 60, the combination of springless preload, high-steer arms, bronze bushings, and heavy-duty crossover steering components can provide a clean foundation for a serious off-road build. Always verify axle compatibility, steering geometry, component clearances, and preload specifications before putting the vehicle into service.