All,

I have a 2000 f350, srw, 4x4, 3.73, v10 reg cab truck with an open rear (ford/sterling).

I am looking to install an LS case and when I went to price the ford parts I was asked whether I wanted the 2 pinion or 3 pinion design. Anyone know the difference?

Thanks!

 

I know that with the older axles like the 9", the differentials had either 2 or 4 pinion gears that helped split the power to the axle shafts. The pinions are located in the center of the carrier, with two side gears that are splined to drive the axle shafts. The 4 pinion units were supposed to be stronger I think, because they didn't put as much of a load on each pinion gear. I didn't realize they'd started using a 3 pinion design, that seems odd. My 8.8" in my Mustang uses 4 pinions. Anyone else have anything on this?

 

dont waste your money on the factory ford LS. if you want better traction get an aftermarket LS or locker

 

All 5.4L configurations and V10 Reg Cabs get the 2 pinion design while V10 Extended cabs, crew cabs and all diesels get the 3-pinion design which is about 50% stronger.

 

I agree with wlihntr, go aftermarket for your LS or Locker. You'll get a better product for probably less money. I wanted a selectable locker so I went with ARB.

 

OK - This is a 95% road truck but I'm tired of spinning one wheel on corners. I figured the FORD case would be the easiest install, press on some new bearings, set the backlash and I'm done. So now I need to ask...if I go after market - cones or plates?

I'm told stick with plates because as the cones wear they eat up the case.

thoughts?

 

Not really, you can get the detriot soft locker, which would grip better and probably be cheaper. The ford ls is the trac-loc design, which would save you a lot alone.