Hey I did a search on here wondering about what the best choice for a LS or locking differential. I couldn't really find any good information so now I'm asking. I have an 01 F-250 4x4 5.4L, with a stock open differential. I would prefer a good limited slip as I drive quite a bit but I'm open to suggestions. Is one brand better than another, more reliable, easier to install? I appreciate the help guys!

 

I am a pretty avid off roader and I believe you get what you pay for. I have installed ARB units in my Jeep and I love their units. However, they are also about the most expensive.

Detriot Locker makes great products that last a long time. I have known people to mess up their DL units, but it is extremely rare and they took alot of abuse before they went.

I am currently experimenting with the new Auburn ECTED locker. It is a limited slip unit and then can be fully locked up. So far so good. The LS is extremely tight and provides excellent traction. So good infact, I rarely lock it all the way up. I also don't get the poping noises that are common to the full lockers when you go around a corner.

I think if I was going to put a unit in a road vehicle, it would have to be the ARB or the Auburn Ected. I think the selectible feature improves the drivability of the car on the road, without sacrificing hardly anything offroad.

As far as installation, the units are all going to be pretty close to the same installation. The ARB requires the wiring of switches and installation of an air compressor. The Auburn just requires the installation of a switch.

If you went with a Detriot, you just install the unit in the housing and there are no wires or air hoses necessary (some people like that).

I do not know about availability of these units for your application. I'm afraid you are on your own for this one, afterall, I need to get some work done.

Hope this helps.

 

I appreciate the help. I was looking at a few things and see these gear type LS differentials such as the Tru-Trac. I understand the principals involved in how they work and they seem simple and durable but how do they perform in the real world? Anyone have any experience with these? I also have heard good things about Auburn Gears positraction units but I thought I read that they were not rebuildable. Are they just that bullet proof or should I look for that option when shopping? I like the idea of being able to totally lock up the differential but I doubt I would need that capability more than once a year. I used to have a chevy that had the famous Eaton G80 mechanical locker in it and was very happy with it. Is there something similar available for a Ford? Thanks again from a Super Duty newbie!

 

all the above mentioned units are great products, but maybe a bit overkill it your not a serious off-roader. I like the auburn limited slip units for driving and towing, plus they do fair off road. Much better than an open diff. Most instalations require replacing the carrier, something you should find someone that knows what they're doing to do. And of course, with selectable lockers comes additional instalation, whether it be cables, air lines, or electrical.
I'm really interested in the E-locker, but don't have a rig to put one in right now.

You could also check with your local drivetrain shop, they may have a factory LS take out (used) leftover from someones locker install.

 

I've had True Tracs, Trac Locs and something else (can't remember the name). I like the True Trac the most. It seemed to work more often when I needed it, doesn't need any friction modifier in the gear oil (as it doesn't have clutches). This was with 33" tires though, so that may make a difference if you go taller. If I were buying a limited slip it'd be the True Trac, but if money weren't the concern I'd probably buy ARBs.

Lockers can cause adverse effects when driving in slippery conditions, like snow, so you need to consider that if you're driving on road with a lot of snow or ice.

 

For what's worth I'm sticking a Detroit in the rear and an ARB in the front of my '04. I want the reassurance of having TRUE 4wd.

Just an FYI, the Eaton E-locker and TrueTrac warranties are void if using tires larger than stock. ARB has a good warranty, and 4wheelparts has a life time no questions asked replacement warranty on the Detroits.

 

FWIW, the Truetrac people told me 35" and Auburn told me 33" were thier maximum recomended sizes. This could have changed since my Truetrac install.

 

I've had True Tracs in the past on other vehicles and was told different.

When doing some research on what would work well for my truck I got an email from Eaton (now owns Detroit/Tractech products) and they suggested the True Trac for my SuperDuty when I told them I'd be running 35" tires.

Edit: this was taken directly from their website, although it's worded wrong it appears you can use up to a 38" tire:

"What is the warranty?
The Truetrac unit is covered for one year from date of purchase against defects in materials and workmanship up to a 38" "

 

Guess I was wrong. That's awesome to hear. I had a TrueTrac in an older F-150 and loved it. Great traction and no weird handling quirks.