An American Axle Manufacturing (AAM) 235 AA 9-1/4" 12 bolt front axle with electric Central Axle Disconnect (CAD) is used on 2019 to current RAM 2500 and RAM 3500 4x4 trucks. The basic design is a carry-over from the previous generation RAM AAM 12 bolt CAD front axle, however, the axle has received many engineering changes so parts are not always interchangeable between the 2013-2018 12 bolt and 2019-up 12 bolt axles.
The 3-link coil spring suspension uses two long radius arms behind the axle and a tracking arm to position the axle under the frame. The axle load capacity is rated at 6000 pounds for both SRW and DRW applications. The axle uses an electrically controlled Central Axle Disconnect system located on the right axle tube to provide shift on the fly axle engagement when the transfer case is shifted into 4x4 mode.
Available AAM brand gear sets include 3.73, 4.10 and 4.44 ratios. In addition to these, aftermarket gear sets are available with 3.42, 4.30, 4.56 and 4.88 ratios. An electric locking front differential is used on RAM 2500 Power Wagons, all other models have conventional open front differentials.
A live spindle design with unitized hub assemblies splined to the axle shafts is used. Large AAM 1555 series single Cardan-type, u-joints connect the inner and outer axle shafts. The anti-lock front disc brakes use floating, dual piston hydraulic calipers. The removable brake rotor is located on the outboard side of the hub flange.
Dynatrac conversions with serviceable wheel bearings, a heavy-duty dead spindle design, and locking hubs is available for both SRW and DRW applications.
