Crane Axle GM 14-Bolt Drive Flange Kit with Studs - 40 Spline
CA01052
The Crane Axle GM 14-Bolt 40-Spline Drive Flange Kit is engineered for extreme off-road racing, rock crawling, and high-horsepower applications where factory locking hubs or drive flanges become a weak point. Manufactured in the USA, the drive plates are precision-machined from heat-treated 8620 chromoly steel for exceptional strength, while the engraved caps are CNC-machined from lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum for corrosion resistance and a premium finish.
Designed specifically for GM 14-bolt full-float rear axles using 40-spline axle shafts, this complete kit includes drive plates, billet caps, studs, O-rings, and installation hardware. The larger 40-spline interface provides increased torque capacity and improved reliability compared to factory 30-spline configurations, making it an excellent upgrade for competition and heavy-duty off-road builds.
Includes:
- (2) 40-Spline Drive Plates
- (2) CNC-Machined Engraved Aluminum Caps
- (16) Drive Flange Studs
- O-Rings and Installation Hardware
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Drive Flange Kit |
| Axle Compatibility | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| Spline Count | 40-Spline |
| Drive Plate Material | 8620 Heat-Treated Chromoly Steel |
| Cap Material | 6061-T6 Aluminum |
| Finish | Natural Machined Aluminum Caps / Heat-Treated Steel Plates |
| Hardware Included | Yes |
| O-Rings Included | Yes |
| Country of Origin | Made in the USA |
Fitment
| Application | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Axle Type | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| Axle Shafts | 40-Spline Aftermarket Axle Shafts |
| Vehicle Type | Custom Off-Road, Rock Crawlers, Ultra4, Competition, Heavy-Duty Trail Rigs |
Fitment Notes:
- Designed specifically for GM 14-bolt full-floating rear axles.
- Requires 40-spline axle shafts.
- Not compatible with factory 30-spline axle shafts.
- Compatible with most aftermarket 40-spline GM 14-bolt conversions.
- Verify axle spline count before ordering.
- Intended for full-float axle applications only.
FAQ
What are the benefits of switching to drive flanges?
Drive flanges eliminate the moving parts found in locking hubs, creating a stronger and more reliable connection between the axle shaft and wheel hub. They are commonly used on competition vehicles where maximum durability is more important than disconnecting the axle.
Will this kit fit a factory GM 14-bolt axle?
Only if the axle has already been converted to 40-spline axle shafts. Factory GM 14-bolt axles typically use 30-spline shafts and are not directly compatible.
Why upgrade to 40-spline axle shafts?
A 40-spline axle shaft has a larger shaft diameter than a 30-spline shaft, allowing it to transmit greater torque while reducing the likelihood of twisting or spline failure under heavy loads.
Are drive flanges stronger than locking hubs?
Yes. Because drive flanges are a solid mechanical connection with fewer moving components, they are generally stronger and better suited for high-horsepower rock crawlers, Ultra4 cars, and dedicated competition vehicles.
Does this kit include everything needed for installation?
Yes. The kit includes two drive plates, engraved aluminum caps, drive flange studs, O-rings, and the necessary installation hardware for the flange assembly.
