Converting an open diff to a LSD?
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New User
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From: Southern Oregon
Converting an open diff to a LSD?
Hello all,
I have an '02 F350 4x4. When doing a little research (I don't have an overwhelming amount of time, sadly), I found that one of the differences between the 4x4 package and the Fx4 is the skid plates, shocks, and LSD in the rear. Would it be possible to convert/replace my open diff in the rear to a LSD? What will I need if it is possible? What are any constraints that need to be taken into account, both obvious and not so?
Thank you for your time,
Cody
I have an '02 F350 4x4. When doing a little research (I don't have an overwhelming amount of time, sadly), I found that one of the differences between the 4x4 package and the Fx4 is the skid plates, shocks, and LSD in the rear. Would it be possible to convert/replace my open diff in the rear to a LSD? What will I need if it is possible? What are any constraints that need to be taken into account, both obvious and not so?
Thank you for your time,
Cody
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2003
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From: Damon (South East Texas)
Yes. You can swap to a locking style differential carrier without too much trouble. You will need a good ft-lb torque wrench, a dial or digital caliper (for measuring carrier bearing shims/spacers), and a dial indicator with mount (to check backlash). The swap is fairly easy and some "before" measurement need to be taken to insure you get the gears set up as close to their original specs. I did the swap to a Detroit Truetrac several years ago. I already had all the aforementioned tools at my disposal. 
I did have to make some slight adjustments to carrier bearing shims to get the proper preload due to some differences in the housings.
I did have to make some slight adjustments to carrier bearing shims to get the proper preload due to some differences in the housings.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2006
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From: Jacksonville, FL
Are you sure you have an open diff? I have an 02 F250 that is not an FX4 and it has the limited rear. Check the metal tags on your diff and it should tell you what you actually have back there.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2003
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From: Damon (South East Texas)
Too much friction modifier or worn clutches can render the LSD ineffective. Those are reasons I chose the Truetrac, I didn't have to worry about either one.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,159
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From: Utah
My truck came with an open diff and I swapped to the Truetrac-it's fantastic. A set of new carrier bearings, and super shims (easily adjustable for thickness) and a couple hours and you can install yourself.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,159
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From: Utah
A spreader is not required. The diff can be pried out easily enough and preload is achieved by tapping in the new shim packs. It's not a terribly time consuming effort but you do pay attention to getting as close to the existing backlash value you can (plus minus 2 thou) and preload.
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New User
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From: Southern Oregon
I'll have to check, but when I was on the ice, it acted like an open diff. Did you get yours from the dealer or was it preowned?
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New User
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From: Southern Oregon
To a person who will be leaning as they go, are there any resources you'd recommend before/during the switch?
Thread Starter
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New User
Joined: Nov 2015
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From: Southern Oregon
Yes. You can swap to a locking style differential carrier without too much trouble. You will need a good ft-lb torque wrench, a dial or digital caliper (for measuring carrier bearing shims/spacers), and a dial indicator with mount (to check backlash). The swap is fairly easy and some "before" measurement need to be taken to insure you get the gears set up as close to their original specs. I did the swap to a Detroit Truetrac several years ago. I already had all the aforementioned tools at my disposal. I did have to make some slight adjustments to carrier bearing shims to get the proper preload due to some differences in the housings.
I did have to make some slight adjustments to carrier bearing shims to get the proper preload due to some differences in the housings.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,298
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From: Damon (South East Texas)
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2006
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From: Jacksonville, FL
Originally Posted by StarvinMarvin
I'll have to check, but when I was on the ice, it acted like an open diff. Did you get yours from the dealer or was it preowned?
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From: Amarillo, TEXAS!