I have my stock 3.55 8.8 NLS and want to change to 3.55 LS what kit or parts do i need i'm confused as to what i need.

 

You need a limited slip diff which is the part the ring gear is mounted on and the part that contains the clutch packs and spider gears, but changing that is the same amount of work and as installing new gears and it requires some special tools so the easier route would be to simply go find a complete rear axle with an LS diff and swap the whole thing. Now that said.. the Ford LS diff isn't a stellar performer offroad.. especially all stock, if you restack it and add an couple extra plates to increase preload on the spring it performs much better, but you can install a locker in your existing open diff for less $$ and work.. POWERTRAX® LOCK-RIGHT LOCKER BY RICHMOND

I guess it depends how you're gonna use the truck, if it's primarally street use then an LS is smother but if you do any offroading a locker is better.

 

yes i'm gonna use it for some off roading on the weekends and stuff nothing crazy but i am in south Florida and we have lots of muck and water. I try to avoid water as much as possible. So your saying that I can put in the POWERTRAX® LOCK-RIGHT LOCKER BY RICHMOND and still get the same performance as getting an entire rear end.

 

Ok i just looked at the site. Thats really cool i'm excited. Sounds much better than what i was thinking. So would i need two of those rear and front axle?

 

Whatever you do don't put a locker in the front axle.. unless you only plan on going straight ahead.. you would believe how difficult it is to steer a truck with a front locker. Instead get posi like the Detroit TruTrac for the front end or just leave it open.Performance Products | Detroit Truetrac Differentials

 

Thanks for the advice that really helps! I love new toys!