I have an '89 Ranger with limited slip rear end. Recently I noticed when I'm turning at slow speeds I can feel the rear end shudder. It feels like something is binding. When I straighten out the wheels the shudder stops. I took the cover off of the rear end, drained the oil and removed the axels. everything looked great...no metalic in oil and bearings and gears look good. I'm not sure how much meat the clutch plates should have but they do have some meat left. Also, it seams like I should've got more oil out of the rear end. I can't find any specs on fluid capacity in my chilton's manual.
I do remember changing the axel seals about five years ago and I never put any additive in. Now I'm told I should've. I think I'm going to put everything back together and refill with oil and additive and see if that helps.
Went to Galpin Ford tonight and they couldn't tell me what kind of oil to use but they did sell me the additive. This was the parts department. Then I talked to three mechanics and asked them about the o-rings that go in the axel groove before the c-clips. They didn't know what I was talking about but they did find them on the computer so I ordered them. I think the o-rings are only there to keep the c-clips in place while the alex is being turned so the clip will sit in the recess. It's probably not needed if you have small fingers and can hold on to the clip while turning the axel.
I would like any advice about the shuddering if anyone else has experienced this problem.
Thanks and have a great day!

 

Yes, I have on my '98 B3000. If you put in the additive you should be fine. I used Amsoil gear lube which "doesn't require an additive". It was fine for a couple of months and then started to chatter. I added Amsoil Slip Lock and it seems to have gone away. I did notice it was worse after it warmed up a bit. Good luck.