is anyone running a lincoln locker on there truck? i was thinking about puuting one in my truck but i would like to know the pros and cons of one.
thanks, sal

 

If by "putting one in", you mean welding up the spider and side gears in your open carrier, then yup, that is a Lincoln locker. The term is slang for welding up the carrier solid.

All you are doing is turning an open diff into a spool....which is an absolutely terrible idea for a street driven truck.

PROS

- Locked solid, 100% traction to both wheels at all times in all conditions
- Relatively strong
- Cheap

CONS

- No differential action, it won't allow the inside and outside wheel speeds to vary when cornering.
- Difficult, unusual quirky handling/cornering characteristics
- Wishy washy rear end in slippery conditions
- Terrible tire wear
- Can be hard on axle shafts with heavy loads
- Reduced manuverability, it will not turn as tight, and try to plow straight

 

ok. thanks.
i wont be doing any towing at all, i was just wondering because im in college and i basically have the minimum budget. thats why i was thinking going with the lincoln locker and i need something soon due tothe snow coming and i dont wana be stranded or stuck in fault to my one legger

 

If you are driving on public roads in slippery conditions, you will be much happier with an open rear. Put it in 4WD and you will be fine.

If you are going to be wheeling in deep snow and don't care about on road charateristics, a spool will serve you well.

 

I had my D80 welded up in my '98.5......exactly like he says.


I did 2 winters with it........it sucks. it sucks really really bad. the rear often wants to pass the front.

its not just hard on the tires....its HARD on the tires.


I did it and wouldn't do it again. if I couldn't get a detroit or ARB or truetrac at least. I would do anything to it. leave it open. any sort of clutch pack type limited slip would be ok to but would be a second rate choice for me personally.

 

ok so my best choice is to not put in a lincoln locker.
what would be the cheapest way of making my rear end a limited slip, or posi?

 

With your Dana 70 I'd suggest a Powr-Lok limited slip. I had one installed in my 1992 truck and absolutely loved it. I rarely ever had to use 4 wheel drive.

Mike

 

where could i find one?
is it the same as the the cable lock for the front axle in 4wd mode?

 

A Powr-Lok is an OEM Dana limited slip diff. It is the best LSD you can install in a D70 rear which is what is in your truck.

It is unrelated to the CAD (Central Axle Disconnect) assembly in the front of your truck.

 

so would i be able to order one from Dana

 

No, Dana/Spicer will not sell directly to you. Hit up a dealer.

IMO, Randy's Ring & Pinion is one of the best.

 

ok awesome. ill look into that tonight thanks for all the help guys