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I keep reading where guys bad mouth the 8.8 for being weak but don't see
anything offered in the way of aftermarket parts that correct any problems.
So, is the 8.8 not "improvable" that way?
Only option is to "improve it" by switching to a Dana or 9inch? :)
My new-to-me '91 Bronco's Traction Lok feels as tho it's gone already at
a measly 124k. :/ With the one wheel off the ground it is easily turned.
I can feel that it really has a limited slip differential in it like its tag says.
(3L55)
But that's about it.
My '75 F150 with a 9inch Traction Lok has always worked good for me.
Is the 8.8 really all that much worse and/or weaker? :/
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I'm considering turning the Bronco into a 2wd and the rear axle's limited-slip
working good is important to me. It has the 5.8 and also planning to install
a wide ratio (with granny) ZF S542 from a '90 F250 2wd.
The Traction Lok in the 9 vs. the 8.8 can't be that different. It's not a particularly strong unit, subject to wear and loss of effectiveness like any clutch-type limited slip.
For your use, I'd just update and repair the 8.8. You can get different LS or locker units, and then you don't have to fool with brakes etc.
The problems I have noticed/heard of from the 8.8 are that the housing is weak, and the fact that it is a c-clip axle. The axle has a relatively good aftermarket, and is easy to work on for being a non 3rd member axle
Clutch wear is pretty much normal. If you need something for casual use, just rebuild it; for heavy duty off roading, get a locker. If I'd have the $$, I'd get an electric locker/LS combo. (Auburn Ected) There are many others with their own pros and cons.
If you have a high performance engine and/or big tires, that's when you could run intro the limitations of the 8.8"