LSD or Open Diff?
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Tuned
Joined: Jun 2023
Posts: 317
Likes: 25
LSD or Open Diff?
96 F250 e40D 5.8
How can I determine if I have an Open or LSD differential? I have a printout from the dealership based on my VIN and the guy at the counter agrees that it is not listed anywhere, which is weird but maybe it didn't make it over when they converted their computers or something.
Evidence for Open diff is that I was on the snow and was just spinning my wheel, or wheels. That seems to imply Open diff unless it was a slippery patch under both wheels which seems unlikely?
But on the other hand, the manual specifies to use an additive to the differential fluid that I thought was for LSD diffs.
Does anyone know what to look for on the vehicle to positively identify what diff I have?
Thank you.
How can I determine if I have an Open or LSD differential? I have a printout from the dealership based on my VIN and the guy at the counter agrees that it is not listed anywhere, which is weird but maybe it didn't make it over when they converted their computers or something.
Evidence for Open diff is that I was on the snow and was just spinning my wheel, or wheels. That seems to imply Open diff unless it was a slippery patch under both wheels which seems unlikely?
But on the other hand, the manual specifies to use an additive to the differential fluid that I thought was for LSD diffs.
Does anyone know what to look for on the vehicle to positively identify what diff I have?
Thank you.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 20,780
Likes: 1,746
From: Kentucky
Check the driver side b-pillar sticker. Lots of information about your truck listed there. Specifically look at the Axle Code section.
If the ratio decoder (right column) ends in LS that means the rear axle is Limited Slip.
Example:
If the ratio decoder (right column) ends in LS that means the rear axle is Limited Slip.
Example:
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 2,757
Likes: 998
I'm lost?
You have no practical evidence that you have a limited slip. You have a factory print out that confirms it was not built with a limited slip. But the manual says to use limited slip additive. I bet, if you read the fine print, the manual will mention something about that as an option. The manual is full of information that does not apply to your exact model.
Another possibility is that unless you purchased this new, someone could have installed a limited slip differential. The only sure fire way is to take the cover off and look. Heck, you probably need to service the oil in there anyway.
You have no practical evidence that you have a limited slip. You have a factory print out that confirms it was not built with a limited slip. But the manual says to use limited slip additive. I bet, if you read the fine print, the manual will mention something about that as an option. The manual is full of information that does not apply to your exact model.
Another possibility is that unless you purchased this new, someone could have installed a limited slip differential. The only sure fire way is to take the cover off and look. Heck, you probably need to service the oil in there anyway.
Thread Starter
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Tuned
Joined: Jun 2023
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Anyway, related question based on your diagram: does this mean that I can only tow something up to 6250lbs? That seems low for an F250 with a 5.8. I thought my tow capacity was 10klbs.
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Tuned
Joined: Jun 2023
Posts: 317
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Oh thanks I'll look as soon as the snow clears etc. Is it on the axle itself or on the diff?
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Tuned
Joined: Dec 2018
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From: SE WI
Its been a few years but i believe it was attached via one of the 12 bolts for the cover.
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