I am negotiating to purchase a 1997 F250, diesel, 2WD. I will be towing a big heavy boat and am interested in your thoughts of installing a locking rear differential. It would be used only to pull the boat up a wet, slippery ramp or a sandy launch site. I really have no interest in it's use in any other capacity.
As I understand these and, I'm not to mechanical, there would be some type of in-cab method to engage/disengage the locking mechanism. Is that about right?
Any insight you could offer on this type or one you feel is better is much appreciated.
At one time I owned and F350 crew cab, 4x4. What a truck! I left that and the work I did at the time behind me and now live a little easier but, I miss my F series truck.

Thanks!!

 

since working in watery application I would think air locker for your application. Either will work and really appreciated when needed. ARB air locker or detroit electric locker are good. I personally run a air locker for my front locker. Only use it in serious applicaiton. when disengage its a open differential and easy on tires and when serious engage and full posi and 100% hook up. On the electric locker its a limited slip when not engaged and when you flip the switch its a full locker. what rear axle do you have? probably a few others out their for you application that will work but these I'm familair with in selectable lockers. Good luck and keep us informed on your situation.

 

You might look into a Auburn limited Slip or Pro Series , Detroit Trutrac , Power Lock . If your main need is to pull out of water these are less expensive than a air or electric locker . And you will get good on road manners as well off road traction .

 

With the torque of a diesel in a 3/4 ton pickup, I would go with a full differential and not one of guts type like powertrax. The big decision will be LS or Locker or selectable. LS engages both tires when one starts to slip. Lockers lock both tires until enough torque tells it to disengage (such as when turning).

Selectable sounds like your better choice, but it's a little more labor intensive than just having a rear end guy slap in a carrier. It's all personal choice, so do your research and pick what you like.

 

Thanks so much! I appreciate all the input.