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Old Oct 20, 2003 | 05:33 PM
  #1  
gmsmstr's Avatar
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Angry Limited Slip Issues

I just got pulled out of a small hole that I seriouly thought I could get though. The problem is that right on my sticker, it says I should have the 3.73 Limited Slip Axle.

Now, if I am correct, when I was stuck, both wheels should have at least tried to spin. I had 80+% of the weight of the rear end on the right wheel, while the left one just spun. No spinning more movement on the right wheel?

Is this what it is suppose to do! Cause I was just in wet grass on a hill!

Dennis
 
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Old Oct 20, 2003 | 05:49 PM
  #2  
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Thats wierd. I think that both tires would spin and try to get you out of the hole. Was it a mud hole, or was it a hard surface?
 
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Old Oct 20, 2003 | 05:50 PM
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This was a bumpy grass hill! Now granted mines not 4x4, but I really thought the 2x4 with the limited slip would get me further than it did!

Dennis
 
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Old Oct 20, 2003 | 06:11 PM
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gmsmstr,

Here's my standard reply regarding the Ford LS unit, just take from it what's relevent, I quit trying to re-type it as a direct reply every time.
_____________________________________________
LIMITED SLIP

Before you tear into your diff., a little explanation of how your limited slip works may change your mind about it being worn out. I can't remember which site I found the info on, but try some of the popular LS aftermarket companies, Auburn, Detroit, ARB, etc... You'll find lots of useful info there. Also, for a real simple explanation of how your LS works, try www.howthingswork.com.

The LS system in your rear diff is actuated by torque, which in turn causes friction on a clutch pack. If the vehicle is stationary, with one rear wheel (especially a dually) spinning, the wheel rotates so freely that there is insufficient torque to activate the LS. Rememeber, it's not a locker, it's a cltuch system.

Try the old trick of lightly applying the brakes or parking brakes (doesn't apply braking force to the front axle) to apply some resistance to the free spinning wheel and create sufficient torque to activate the LS clutch pack.


I had the exact same scenario you described happen to me within a week of buying my truck, and, like you, I was peeved. A little research into the problem, and the folks here, helped me to understand just how my limited slip worked and realize that in fact it was working as it should.

A common trick is to apply light brake pressure or lightly engage the emergency brake to supply the resistance/torque needed to engage the LS clutch pack.

That being said, if you do have higher miles on your truck, the LS may be worn out or not functioning at its best. I would advise starting by changing the fluid in the diff. The concensus is that a good quality synthetic like Mobil 1 will give you the best operation of your LS and the longest life and durability. If you're still not happy, the clutch pack can be rebuilt as stated above.
_________________________________________

Good luck,

Waxy
 
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Old Oct 20, 2003 | 06:43 PM
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And if your still not happy?
Lockers are the only way for me. I love em.
 
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Old Oct 21, 2003 | 02:55 PM
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The dealer is saying something like 25 pounds is all that is needed to enagage the limited slip. I had enough grip to move the truck a foot or two, but then the left wheel would slip and nothing on the right wheel.

Dennis
 
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Old Oct 21, 2003 | 03:30 PM
  #7  
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They just don't work well I've had 3 of them. Don't expect them to work in mud or slippery situations like snow or ice..Some work better than others..
 
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Old Oct 22, 2003 | 10:57 PM
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I had to take mine in to the dealer twice. They put a new clutch pack in the read end and now the limited-slip works like it should.
 
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Old Oct 22, 2003 | 10:59 PM
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Ok now I'm not so worried about needing to use 4wd to get up a wet grassy slope.
 
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Old Oct 22, 2003 | 11:09 PM
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waxy said it... you NEED to lightly apply brake while throttle for the LSD to engage.

as an aid to you LSD, you can add friction additive to the lube, but seriously, your best bet is a true locking diff if you want true traction.
 
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Old Oct 27, 2003 | 08:58 AM
  #11  
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It also doesn't work so good in the cold, it works much better when warm/hot.

-Brents
 
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Old Nov 2, 2003 | 07:27 PM
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Where can I purchase a true locking differential for my 2002 F-250 Superduty? Are there any negatives if I install it?
 
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Old Nov 2, 2003 | 08:59 PM
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After looking at the options I chose the detroit soft locker. I love it. No problems at all.
You could try Randys ring and pinion or 10 other places online.
If you put it in yourself email me and give you the heads up.
 
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Old Nov 2, 2003 | 09:48 PM
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Thanks. I would have my friend put it in. Where is the best website to buy the Detroit Soft Locker? Or should I just surf?
 
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Old Nov 3, 2003 | 07:36 AM
  #15  
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I already told you rrp
 
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