Differential Identification?

Discussion in 'Freightliner Forum' started by dajain, Jun 30, 2026.

  1. dajain

    dajain Light Load Member

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    Hello guys.
    I have a 1999 FLD120 and I've been trying to determine the source of a nasty vibration I have, but I'm pretty sure I found it.
    A little more info, I don't think it's the original diff. The VIN says the truck is a T/A but it is only a single. Plus, it seems geared lower than what I would think it should be. 70 mph = 1800 rpm with an Eaton 10 speed.

    The Yoke on the differential had a lot of play (radial) and would move 1/8" - 1/4" by hand. I undid the nut on the yoke and had no problem puling it off by hand and without tools. But another reason I don't think it's an original diff is the yoke still has the sticker on it with a date of 6-4-1991 and part number S2654609.

    Big question is, how do identify this differential so I can insure I get the right yoke and tube shaft?
     

    Attached Files:

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  3. Big Road Skateboard

    Big Road Skateboard Road Train Member

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    I'd probably look at the tag riveted to the diff.
    Or post a couple pics
     
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  4. dajain

    dajain Light Load Member

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    I did find the riveted tag but not sure if it is fully legible.
    Also took 4 more photos but they don't seem to want to transfer so I can share them.
    Hoping the tags gives enough information.
     

    Attached Files:

  5. dajain

    dajain Light Load Member

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    If I'm reading that tag right.......

    This axle is from 1973?????

    Is that what everyone else is seeing also?
     
  6. jaffles

    jaffles Medium Load Member

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    I'm reading
    03
    Model A3120P16
    Ser 0011570
    date 12 4 13

    from google
    The part number A-3120-P-16 refers to a Meritor (formerly Rockwell) differential carrier or related internal gear component. Meritor/Rockwell uses the A-3120 prefix to denote a differential carrier, while the P-16 suffix typically indicates a specific gear ratio or design iteration. [1, 2, 3, 4]
     
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  7. dajain

    dajain Light Load Member

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    I think I would have to disagree on the date. The 1 in the first position of the date doesn't look anything like what you see as 13 on the year. That number before the 3 has a curve to it. It doesn't look like any of the 1's on the tag and 9 is usually an upside down 6. Only number I can relate that curved stem to is a 7.

    And besides, in 2002, Rockwell was defunct and rebranded as AxleTech. So, technically, it would be impossible for this Rockwell (per riveted tag) differential to be a 2013.

    So, if it is a '73 model.... Anyone have a newer rear axle just lying around they want to sell which would replace this one? I would imagine parts are getting scarce for something this old, plus a little higher gear ratio wouldn't be bad either. ;)
     
  8. jaffles

    jaffles Medium Load Member

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    fair enough, yes I can see the arch in the 7 now. good luck
     
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  9. dajain

    dajain Light Load Member

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    I'm leaning towards just getting a replacement axle instead of fixing something this old.
    I'm in rural southern Utah and have a few friends with acres of broken equipment which might have one I could buy.
    I'm just not sure a 53 year old diff is worth fixing, or if the parts are even still available.

    Thoughts?
     
  10. jaffles

    jaffles Medium Load Member

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    I guess it depends on what it does for you, and what it costs to fix. You will be able to cross reference part numbers but it will just take a little time, or you may need the physical item like a bearing for a bearing shop to identify. I'd also bet a 73 diff can be swapped out for a newer second hand diff without much effort. Being rockwell makes its far easier than some obscure brand.
     
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  11. Ridgeline

    Ridgeline Road Train Member

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    Here is a thought: go to the dealer, have them pull up the order for the truck by the vin, and it will list the make and model of the axle to confirm if it is what it is.
     
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