Differential and distributor question

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May 8, 2012 | 11:29 PM

MechaNick702

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From: Las Vegas

Differential and distributor question

I don't know much about differentials in 4wd and 2wd trucks but is it possible for my 71 F-250 Sport Custom Camper Special to have a locking differential in the rear even though it is 2wd? Also I don't know much about electrical components so I don't know when the distributor should be replaced or what brand I should use.

May 9, 2012 | 12:15 PM

rustywheel68

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it would be possible for your truck to have a locking differential, yes.

as for the distributor...are you having trouble with it? they usually get replaced (or rebuilt) when the shaft gets too much side-to-side play.

May 9, 2012 | 09:48 PM

MechaNick702

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From: Las Vegas

Alright sweet! Can you give me a couple good options for a differential?
And the distributor is just being upgraded to go along with the engine rebuild.

May 9, 2012 | 09:58 PM

willowbilly3

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From: Black Hills of SD

I installed a limited slip in my 72 F-250. 16 years in Alaska and only got pulled out twice, 4wd wouldn't have helped either time. It makes a whole different truck out of a 2wd. Never owned an actual locker though.

May 9, 2012 | 11:03 PM

MechaNick702

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From: Las Vegas

What's a good brand of limited slip or locking differential?
Yea I've heard it makes it a better truck and the winch I add on the front will help too haha.

May 9, 2012 | 11:42 PM

HIO Silver

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From: NorCal

Quote:

Originally Posted by MechaNick702

What's a good brand of limited slip or locking differential?
Yea I've heard it makes it a better truck and the winch I add on the front will help too haha.

I suggest checking your rear gear for an axle tag. If it has one, the start of the second line would read something like " 3 L 50". The "L" means it is equipped with Traction-Lok and a 3.50 gear whereas the code "3 50" would mean that it is an open differential with a 3.50 gear.

In terms of a limited slip, find a donor rear gear with an L in its code. If looking for a locker, Richmond's "Lock-Right" or "Powetrax" are the least costly. I'd lean towards a Powertrax for street use cuz the Lock-Right can be noisy on the street. From there, then you'd be looking at Detroit (an Eaton company), Grizzly, or ARB and mucho more dollars.

Good luck with your decision.

May 10, 2012 | 12:00 AM

willowbilly3

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From: Black Hills of SD

Very few F-250s of those years had any kind of limited slip from the factory. I have seen only a couple in all my years messing with these old trucks. I bought my clutch type from a driveline shop. I think it was made by Dana/Spicer.,