Driveability with Trac-Lok
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 610
Likes: 0
From: socal
I doubt there is any differance between a 9" trac lock and one in a Dana 60. It is all in the clutches I think in the tech article sect. there is a write up on how to rebuild a trac-lock, maybe it was in one of the off road mags. Trac lock is Fords name for a limited slip, just like GM calls theres posi traction. Drawbacks on the street,virtually none if its wore out, in good shape or "tight" barely noticable. Off road it is better than an open diff but wont get you much further. Remember to add the little bottle of special oil for the clutches for it to work properly,can't remember what it's called right now but someone here will.
Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 5,231
Likes: 1
From: Near Fresno, California
The only issue is that on real slick roads it can make the truck hard to turn - a slight understeer on ice or mud. I have always found that the improvement in off-road traction well worth whatever slight problem it causes in steering.
I did buy a new truck one time with the trac-loc on both the front and rear axles. Mostly I think it would have climbed a tree, but uphill on a muddy clay road it was almost uncontrollable. I will never again have it on the front axle.
I did buy a new truck one time with the trac-loc on both the front and rear axles. Mostly I think it would have climbed a tree, but uphill on a muddy clay road it was almost uncontrollable. I will never again have it on the front axle.
Senior User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 278
Likes: 0
A Trac-Loc diff is probably the lightest duty limited slip to use in your truck.
It will help over having an open diff but not by much.
Like WillyB said, you may have issues in slick or Icy conditions.
Other than those 2 conditions you may not even notice it is back there until you need it.
I had installed one many years ago in the front of a full time Power Wagon and it was interesting to drive. Got use to it and drove it like that for a couple years.
Ended up upgrading axles to part time and installed a rear Detroit Locker.
I would use it if it was me or upgrade to a Power-Loc or better for the rear.
Good luck.
Ken
It will help over having an open diff but not by much.
Like WillyB said, you may have issues in slick or Icy conditions.
Other than those 2 conditions you may not even notice it is back there until you need it.
I had installed one many years ago in the front of a full time Power Wagon and it was interesting to drive. Got use to it and drove it like that for a couple years.
Ended up upgrading axles to part time and installed a rear Detroit Locker.
I would use it if it was me or upgrade to a Power-Loc or better for the rear.
Good luck.
Ken
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Senior User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 387
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From: Calgary
I bought the centre section for the 3.70 gears so any benefit from the trac-lok will just be a bonus. Might come in handy if I start driving the truck as my daily driver in the winter.
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Postmaster
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 3,441
Likes: 5
From: Muskegon, MI (home)
I have heard Trac Loks don't hold up well in a rear axle. I am running one in the front of my 84 F150 and a Power Trax No-Slip in the rear with 4.10s and 33 inch mudders. That truck is really hard to get stuck, and will climb up and over almost anything! The downside is it doesn't steer worth a crap on slick of loose surfaces, I wouldn't dare trying to run it on a hard surface! IMO I think they work best in front axle applications on vehicles that are used for moderate to somewhat difficult off roading. When it comes to a dedicated 4 wheeler there is no substitute for spools and lockers (or welding for you rednecks out there 
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Senior User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 278
Likes: 0
Looks like you are in Minnesota.
No chains or studded tires are allowed, correct?
Not sure if the trac-locs would be help or hinder you while using the plow.
good snow tires and working with the air pressure in them to get the optimum traction would be your best bet.
I would try one season with the trac-locs and see how they work.
Be careful and good luck.
Ken
No chains or studded tires are allowed, correct?
Not sure if the trac-locs would be help or hinder you while using the plow.
good snow tires and working with the air pressure in them to get the optimum traction would be your best bet.
I would try one season with the trac-locs and see how they work.
Be careful and good luck.
Ken
Posting Guru
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 1,302
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From: Madison, SD
It will do some funny things to your steering, but front and rear traction lok differentials will definitely move some snow!!! The clutches will wear out, but certainly no big deal to replace them.
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 610
Likes: 0
From: socal
I think that with a plow & a tracloc up front I would avoid heavy throttle with the wheels turned it will probably burn up the clutch pack pretty fast, but then again what do I know about plowing I live in southern CA.