We have a 2000 F250 4x4 with limited slip rear differential. In 4x4 the rear end will be locked (inside rear tire is engaged when turning in a circle, leaving black mark) The limited slip works as it should when in two wheel drive when turning the inside tire free wheels and when under power it spins both rear tires. Is this a common action when going into 4x4 or have we got something going wrong here?

 

Engaging 4wd should only affect the front end from the transfer case forward (engage front axle and lock hubs if you have ESOF). It should have zero effect on the rear end.

 

Completely normal, the front tires travel farther than the rear in 4 x 4 while turning. If the LS is good the inside rear tire will generally slip first (unloaded).

 

AAhh, I get it. The front is locked to the back now and the rear tire radius in a turn is smaller than the front causing the bind and black mark from the rear tire.

I always thought that the warning of "don't drive far in 4wd on dry pavement" came from the difference in turning radius between the two front tires, not the front and back. Now it makes sense.

I learn something new every day, no matter how obvious it is to others. Reps sent. Thanks.