BAJA MAN

I am considering purchasing a new 2004 Dodge Quad Cab ST, 4X2, diesel 600, long bed, 6 speed manual. It does NOT have the anti-spin option. I believe I need it because I launch a boat in the ocean (slippery launch ramps) and was told without it the rear wheels would not both engage when faced with wheel spin.

If this is so, how easy is to convert and what would be the approximate cost? Would the parts be ordered from the dealer and have them install or is easy enough for reputable mechanic to install. Since the truck is BRAND NEW, I wanted it done properly.

Many Thanks!!

Gypsyman

Randy's and Pinion has them in stock for $517 dollars. Dealer charged me about $350 to install it. I made it through an Alaskan winter without it but I have 4X4. I had to add it after the TST and VA stack just to try and keep the rear end hooked up. Since your looking at a 4X2 I would try to get the dealer to install one and add it to the deal for a reduced cost. If the boat is large I wouldn't even attempt a boat ramp with an open rear and the torque these trucks have.

jm02

Richard

bulabula

Welcome Baja Man.

I'm guessing that you're getting a whale of a deal (pun intended) to be thinking of a 4x2 to pull your boat up the ramp. Taking the boat down to Baja?

You certainly don't need any more gear than 1st to pull any boat out of the water; but, given the fact that you're going to drop a nice piece of coin anyways, why are you going to cheap out now?

And yes, its my experience that you can indeed experience wheel slip on boat ramps; been there done that. But not since I bought my 4x4.

What did the selling dealer quote you on the price? Have you let your fingers do the walking in the yellow pages for some quotes? My SWAG on a total cost would be a thou', heck thats almost half way there to the only correct answer.

Sorry I couldn't be more help on the cost.

gsdog1

I gotta agree with what has been mentioned. First, I would tell the dealer to put it in the truck. Second, I would be price shopping a comparable rig with what you already want on it.

If you let someone put one in after the fact, I too think you are looking at somewhere around $1000 parts and labor.

Good luck with your purchase!

Matt

Raspy

BAJA MAN,

Are you sure you want a 2WD? If you are sure then it seems the LS rear end is a must. I wouldn't even have a 4WD without it. As soon as you find a ramp that's steep or has a hole, you're in trouble. Is there some reason you don't want 4WD considering your intended use and your name?

Wetspirit

Vittorio

4 x 4 limited slip.

jkitterman

2wd truck with limited slip or not always lead me to thinking of all the pictures showing a submerged truck and boat trailer. If the rear wheels start to slip/ spin, you may find yourself going into the drink.

djp9747

Baja Man, I have an 04.5 4x4 that has Open Diff on front and back. It was bought off the lot and I never thought to check to see if it had open diffs (just assumed since it was 4x4). I've gone through the exact same routine here. I wanted to put LS in it. Dealer quoted me roughly $1200-1500. I've decided that if I'm going to spend that kind of money, that I might as well wait to put an ARB Air Locker or an Eaton eLocker in it when they come out with one. I figure that it will cost close to the dealer estimate, and give me much better locking as I can activate it/deactivate it on will.

I'm still perplexed why Dodge would put out a 4x4 without a LS diff on it. I do know that my truck was bought and sent to a Colorado dealership, and then transferred down to Texas. The only thing I can think of is that I've heard on icy roads it is better to have an open diff than a LS diff because the LS could cause the rear end to get sideways on you. Since the truck was ordered for Colorado, that's the ONLY reason I could fathom.

I'm with the others...you are looking at $1000 to have this done after you buy your truck. Use it as a negotiating tool. If you can get them to put it in for $500-600 I say you did good.