Electronic locking rear questions
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Tuned
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 253
Likes: 1
Electronic locking rear questions
Thinking about getting a new truck. Currently have a regular cab short bed with 3.7 and non limited slip rear. I have to say I am pretty happy with traction control. In my old 2006 F350 with limited slip I used to have to put it in four wheel drive just to get up my driveway with a couple of inches of snow. That's no longer the case. While I wouldn't mind having the ELD for $400.00, but I am starting to think it just isn't necessary. Is there any downside to the ELD that I am not aware of. Appreciate any input.
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 2,659
Likes: 2
Ya, the drawback is it doesn't stay in to high enough speed. Not useful except from a dead stop. If I did it all over again I would get the clutch posi (or whatever it is called).
I have read about swapping out the control module and **** on dash with a Raptor model to keep the locker engaged to something like 70 mph. It was expensive though.
I have read about swapping out the control module and **** on dash with a Raptor model to keep the locker engaged to something like 70 mph. It was expensive though.
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 2,659
Likes: 2
I turn a **** for 4wd, and pull on that same **** for the locker. Locker works in 2wd and 4wd. I've heard a rumor some years/models can't use the locker in 2wd. I have a 2012.
I use the locker several times a week in 2wd for stoplight sprints. I have to use 4wd if leaving off the converter or the tires will spin even sitting still on the line. The rear brakes alone can't hold the torque of the Ecoboost with 3.73 gears.
I use the locker several times a week in 2wd for stoplight sprints. I have to use 4wd if leaving off the converter or the tires will spin even sitting still on the line. The rear brakes alone can't hold the torque of the Ecoboost with 3.73 gears.
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Tuned
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 253
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Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2007
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It's part of my personal contribution to help Ford raise awareness about the Ecoboost. 
My warranty will expire about the same time Full-Race finally releases a 600 HP twin turbo upgrade. What a nice coincidence!
My warranty will expire about the same time Full-Race finally releases a 600 HP twin turbo upgrade. What a nice coincidence!
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Elder User
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Only downside is that it gets you stuck quicker, than just driving off-road with open rear. I don't know why, but I find if I'm off-road in 2wd, with locker enabled in sand or mud. It somehow makes the truck dig itself into a hole, even when not trying to horse around if that makes sense.
That said, I have found it most useful in unplowed snow. So far this year, I was in a snow storm with my truck. And since it's a super long 157" chassis, you have to plan way ahead when thinking about turning around. Especially when the streets are much narrow due to the snow and traffic driving by you.
Mad a 3 point turn into a sloped driveway, with about 6" of snow on the ground. Had the truck in 4wd which made it even more difficult to navigate. When I backed into the driveway, (rear part of the truck on the slope downward) the nose level. I found my self spinning one front wheel and one rear wheel.
The only way I got out of the situation was switching on the locking rear diff, which made forward motion a breeze after that. Part of the blame was the OEM Scorpion ATR's though, they might as well be slicks in the snow, but the locker helped immensely.
That said, I have found it most useful in unplowed snow. So far this year, I was in a snow storm with my truck. And since it's a super long 157" chassis, you have to plan way ahead when thinking about turning around. Especially when the streets are much narrow due to the snow and traffic driving by you.
Mad a 3 point turn into a sloped driveway, with about 6" of snow on the ground. Had the truck in 4wd which made it even more difficult to navigate. When I backed into the driveway, (rear part of the truck on the slope downward) the nose level. I found my self spinning one front wheel and one rear wheel.
The only way I got out of the situation was switching on the locking rear diff, which made forward motion a breeze after that. Part of the blame was the OEM Scorpion ATR's though, they might as well be slicks in the snow, but the locker helped immensely.
Senior User
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 253
Likes: 0
From: Perry, Utah
I turn a **** for 4wd, and pull on that same **** for the locker. Locker works in 2wd and 4wd. I've heard a rumor some years/models can't use the locker in 2wd. I have a 2012.
I use the locker several times a week in 2wd for stoplight sprints. I have to use 4wd if leaving off the converter or the tires will spin even sitting still on the line. The rear brakes alone can't hold the torque of the Ecoboost with 3.73 gears.
I use the locker several times a week in 2wd for stoplight sprints. I have to use 4wd if leaving off the converter or the tires will spin even sitting still on the line. The rear brakes alone can't hold the torque of the Ecoboost with 3.73 gears.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 4,738
Likes: 103
From: FL
The times I've used my ELD are more to "play around" then to actually free myself from being stuck. We've got quite a bit of snow in this area, and I usually leave it in 4wd hi with the TC on. Downsides as mentioned, disables at 25MPH, could hurt you if wheelspin is needed to get you free. Also, this means you are already stuck vs a limited slip diff that might have powered you through the first time.
Cargo Master
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 3,061
Likes: 39
From: Laramie, WY
I prefer the ELD in my new truck vs. an Eaton limited slip in my old truck. The old truck would make the rear slip in snow if it did a hard downshift going up a hill. The new truck shifts smoother and the rear end doesn't break loose because it isn't locked. The ELD isn't needed at speeds above 25 mph (other than for play times), it is useful for getting unstick or going over large rocks which leave a wheel hanging in the air.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 6,757
Likes: 5
From: Corvallis, OR
I prefer the ELD in my new truck vs. an Eaton limited slip in my old truck. The old truck would make the rear slip in snow if it did a hard downshift going up a hill. The new truck shifts smoother and the rear end doesn't break loose because it isn't locked. The ELD isn't needed at speeds above 25 mph (other than for play times), it is useful for getting unstick or going over large rocks which leave a wheel hanging in the air.
