Mag-Hytec Front Diff Cover Clearance Issues

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Feb 20, 2008 | 11:42 AM

Mr. Sandman

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From: So. Cal.

Mag-Hytec Front Diff Cover Clearance Issues

A few months ago I installed front and rear Mag-Hytec diff covers on my 04 F350 PSD. According to the install instructions for the front cover, "there may be some clearance issues". I assumed the issues were during the install procedure and not after the install was complete. Wrong! The front cover, in holding more fluid, sticks out about a 1/4" - 1/2" too far and when the suspension takes a hard hit and compresses, the cover is hit by the tie rod. So what's the fix as I don't think I'm the only one who's had this problem? I read somewhere that the tie rod and drag link need to be bent, but this doesn't sound like a viable or wise option. I could probably grind off the fin on the cover but don't really want to do that either. Any ideas?

Feb 20, 2008 | 11:49 AM

DCSpecial

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From: IL, USA

The tie rod is what connects the driver's side and passenger side knuckle.....it doesn't move under suspension travel, only moves when turning.

Is it the drag link or trac bar hitting the cover under suspension travel?

Or is the tie rod hitting it when you turn to full lock on the steering?

Feb 20, 2008 | 12:03 PM

Mr. Sandman

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From: So. Cal.

I'll have to take a closer look. It hits under suspension movement, not steering.

Feb 20, 2008 | 12:48 PM

Gage2502

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From: Northern IL

I just bought the Mag-Hitec for the rear and was going to order the front too but I thought it was going to rub also. Why do they sell them for the front if they dont fit right?
~Gage~

Feb 21, 2008 | 01:26 AM

chiahunw

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From: L.A., CA

over the weekend, I installed Mag-Hytec diff cover for the front. Then I discovered it has a major clearance issue with Donahoe Racing steering stabilizer bracket. The bracket would hit the diff cover when turn left. So I went back to the factory diff cover.

Feb 21, 2008 | 05:28 PM

Mr. Sandman

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From: So. Cal.

I did a little more crawling around under my truck last night. What's hitting is the bracket that bolts onto the frame cross member and bolted to the bracket is what I think is the drag link or stabilizer bar. Regardless, I think I can get the clearance I need by doing a little carving on the bracket and if need be on 2-3 of the fins on the cover or I may be able to heat and bend the bracket where it hits.

Mar 2, 2008 | 04:51 PM

Gage2502

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Joined: Feb 2004

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From: Northern IL

Mr. Sandman, are you still having issues with the Mag-Hytec front diff cover?
Im still thinking about getting one for my 2005 Super Duty.
Thanks ~Gage~