Rear diff locked

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Nov 15, 2011 | 04:00 PM

kmitz05

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Sep 2011

Posts: 7

Likes: 0

Rear diff locked

I have a 2000 7.3 and I noticed during a brake job that the rear wheels are locked together. This can't be normal. The tires spin freely but when you turn one the other spins with it. No wierd noises or anything.

I need some help fixing this.

Nov 15, 2011 | 04:03 PM

SteveH-CO

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Jul 2005

Posts: 1,800

Likes: 52

From: Southern Colorado

You may have the limited slip diff - check for an 'L' in the diff tag - like 3L73 - meaning 3.73 ratio, limited slip. Unless the diff is locked up solid (as in, it chatters when you make a U-turn), you have nothing to worry about. The PO may have also installed a real locker, too.

Nov 15, 2011 | 04:10 PM

kmitz05

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Sep 2011

Posts: 7

Likes: 0

So this is normal? It does have a little play and is not locked up solid. I can spin one tire to about 1 oclock before the other starts to turn.

Nov 15, 2011 | 04:22 PM

rs4-380

Cross-Country

Joined: Sep 2011

Posts: 95

Likes: 1

From: Maine

do they spin in the same direction or opposite directions?

Nov 15, 2011 | 04:35 PM

dchamberlain

Lead Driver

Joined: Sep 2007

Posts: 8,180

Likes: 669

From: Scio, OR

It's normal for a limited slip differential, which you probably have. Find an empty place in a parking lot and do the tightest circles you can do. As long as the rear tires are not chirping you are fine.