Limited slip--aftermarket or factory is best?

Discussion in 'General Tow Rig Discussion' started by tractorguy, Jul 18, 2005.

  1. tractorguy

    tractorguy Active Member

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    I'm looking at two trucks at different dealers. One has factory limited slip, but not so great $ for my trade. Other has open differential, but better $ for my trade. Is it smarter to go with the factory setup (cost me more :doah: ) or install an aftermarket unit myself (cost me less :) ).
    Also, which types/brands of limited slip units would work best behind a CTD?
    Thanks!
    Charley
     
    tractorguy, Jul 18, 2005
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  2. Brisk

    Brisk Well-Known Member

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    I am not sure what is available for the Dana 70/80 but I wouldthink that it depends on what you plan on using the truck for. If the only offroading it sees is snow than a LS like a Detroit Tru-Trac would be a good idea. It is a gear driven unit without clutches to wear out. It you might see a little more hardcore stuff than maybe a full locker like a Detroit Locker would be a good idea. They are virtually bombproof and they give you 100% lockup. however the Locker will be slightly nore noticeable on the street. if you have a long enough wheelbase though than it shouldnt be much of a problem unless you punch it going around a turn.

    my $.02

    -Brent
     
    Brisk, Jul 18, 2005
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  3. RJF's Red Cummins

    RJF's Red Cummins TRC Staff Moderator

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    The great thing with Dana axles is that they come with really good posi units. The truck with the locking differential probably has a Dana trac lock. Good unit far as I know and is a limited slip. THe Dana Power Lock is a more aggressive version that is a full locker. I don't think they have ever come factory in the Dodges, just the track lock, which is plenty anyway.

    If you plan on pushing a lot of power, I would recommend having a posi. I wish my truck had gotten an LS.
     
    RJF's Red Cummins, Jul 18, 2005
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  4. tractorguy

    tractorguy Active Member

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    Is Dodge still using Dana? I thoght I read that the new axles were made by an outfit called American Axle?
     
    tractorguy, Jul 18, 2005
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  5. Shaggy

    Shaggy TRC Staff Moderator

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    The new trucks have AAM axles, not Dana.
     
    Shaggy, Jul 18, 2005
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  6. RJF's Red Cummins

    RJF's Red Cummins TRC Staff Moderator

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    Are these new trucks you are looking at? For some reason I assumed they were used trucks. :eek: 2003 and up use American Axle Manufacturer brand.
     
    RJF's Red Cummins, Jul 18, 2005
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  7. Brisk

    Brisk Well-Known Member

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    :eek: Opps me too. Yeah the new ones use the American Axle (AAM) I dont know if there are any aftermarket units out there for that axle yet. I've heard that their 11.50" unit is different than GMs
     
    Brisk, Jul 18, 2005
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  8. tractorguy

    tractorguy Active Member

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    2+ years on the road and no aftermarket? :eek: I'll contact a few manufacturers and let you know what I find waytogo !
     
    tractorguy, Jul 19, 2005
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