Differential options

[darmahsd]

Compared to my old '97, this '05 that I got just plain sucks in the snow.
I know it's mainly because this newer one doesn't have LSD and I'm really missing that. Probably have to wait til the warm weather, but I'd really like to put a Tru Trac in it rather than the OEM clutch type.
Trouble is, as most 2nd gen owners are aware, there's not much
available on the aftermarket compared to 1997-2002. My old one had
a 9.something rear end, but I believe the newer ones are smaller and weaker due to the IRS. When doing a search at places like Jegs or Summit, I'm coming up with units for just 1rst gen. When I emailed Eaton, it bounced back. Anyone have experience changing out to a limited slip on the second generation? Will second and third gens swap out? In a perfect world, it would be nice (and more expensive) to swap out the whole differential unit, 3.73 final drive. While I'm at it, a front one would be nice. To me, for overall driving, the LSD is more useful and important than AWD.

 

[mindgame]

Take a look at this..
http://www.differentials.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/2012-WCD-Catalog.pdf

Hope this provides info that you need...

 

[darmahsd]

That is a wealth of information. Found out that I DO have a 9.75 like my old '97 and not the 8, even though IRS. Just not LSD. The 9.75 is on all the '05's - 5.4 engine. They can be identified by having 12 bolts and a more asymmetrical shape than the 8.8, which has 10 bolts and typically found in older Expy's with 4.6 or 6 cylinder F150's. I can get a True Trac, gear driven differential, which when reviewing all the forums, is the most wildly recommended as opposed to OEM clutch pack types. So I think that's what I'll do, if I could find a competent axle expert in my area to put one in. Thanks for that, Mindgame.

Stephen

 

[DetroitDarin]

That is a wealth of information. Found out that I DO have a 9.75 like my old '97 and not the 8, even though IRS. Just not LSD. The 9.75 is on all the '05's - 5.4 engine. They can be identified by having 12 bolts and a more asymmetrical shape than the 8.8, which has 10 bolts and typically found in older Expy's with 4.6 or 6 cylinder F150's. I can get a True Trac, gear driven differential, which when reviewing all the forums, is the most wildly recommended as opposed to OEM clutch pack types. So I think that's what I'll do, if I could find a competent axle expert in my area to put one in. Thanks for that, Mindgame.

Stephen

...and maybe stronger axles when you upgrade? Are you worried about them? I'd like a TrueTrac but I'm a little worried the axles/joints might not hold up.

 

[darmahsd]

I'm not using truck for heavy wheeling. But, yes, it's probably a false economy not to beef up with stronger axles as long as its apart. It's
the IRS, though, so not sure of availability. I think the rear is similar to the front in that it's the front drive CV technology. I will go for new bearings when I have them put the True Trac in.

 

[tonydiv]

The thing to remember is that modern stability control and traction control systems need open differentials to function properly. The system can't send brake force to individual wheels if there is a locking or limited slip device in the system.

 

[darmahsd]

Another good point, but on my '05 that system was an option and I don't have it.