So here's my deal. I have a 1998 12 passenger powerstroke (the super pickle) for family and occasional mid-schooler Young Life camp hauling including 5-10% winter driving to ski hills or mountain destinations around northern New Mexico/Colorado. I have a 3.55 open diff axle. This thing handles snow like a wounded cow. I have upgraded rear tires to something called a green diamond tire that has silicon carbide chips embedded in the tread to help tire grip but I want more assurance. I have read that lockers on 2WD can approach 4WD for most road type traction needs. Here's the questions...
1) is 5-10% worth the wear and tear on the drive train for a semi locker/posi trac type detroit?
2) any estimates what the mileage hit is? I'm getting 18mpg or better and prefer not to loose too much of that.
3) What about the rear end breaking loose more often with full lockers? Are semi/torsion style lockers just as susceptible? Have you ever heard 11 middle school girls scream simultaneously?? HUUH?
4) what are the alternatives, e.g. are there limited slip conversion options worth talking about for a Code 39 axle/ (10.25inch I think)
5) Is chaining the only cheap option? (Not my favorite under wet/cold vehicle activity)

Any and all imput appreciated cuz I'm a NEWBIE!

 

1. there is no extra wear or tear
2.no mileage hit either
3.locker and limited slips tend to want to kick out if you drive wrong around sharp corners.
4.Ford offered a limited slip option for your van. A new l/s unit is about the same as a nice detroit locker.