My 4.7L 2WD 2002 D has an open differential, which I'm thinking is pretty common. This summer, I'll be towing a boat, and my boat ramp is mostly grass. I'd like to have both rear wheels pushing me forward instead of just one spinning helplessly on the wet grass as I slide into the murky depths.

So, whats the easiest way to upgrade to the LSD or anti-spin rear diff? Can I go to any shop and ask for more grip, or do I need to order the parts myself and then take it to a shop?

 

Easiest way is to take it to a reputable drivetrain shop and have them install a aftermarket locker.
If you dont know, dont mess with it.
Off road shops are a good choice but some cost more than others. As with any shop. Look around.

 

+1 Differentials are tricky and def not for the DIY'ers. It's one thing that is very costly to begin with but, can be double the cost and you without a ride if its not done right.

I used to think people were blowing smoke when they advised me to take mine to a shop till i decided to get prices for the job... out of 10 professional garages 1 was willing to take on differential work.. That one happend to be a custom 4x4 shop.

 

+1 on that, most shops won't even think to touch differentials. I went to a local small town shop when I wanted to do a regear and I luckily happen found one that was a self declared custom Ram expert. He did a re-gear front and rear to 410's at a great price using quality Yukon parts. I found a two regular custom shops that wanted DOUBLE the price!!!! You have to look around and question the parts they use as well.

The LSD carrier that is available for your rig that is OEM, well that design with clips is a bad design. There are other ways to upgrade to LSD inserts or better yet a locker as stated would be your best option. Personally I would do electric over pneumatic, just my opinion for regular street builds.

Also maybe look into some Mud Terrain tires.

 

I'd put in a selectable locker (with an 'open'/'locked' switch in cabin), but that's just me. I did two in my Jeep (myself). They are a grand though, so you have to really use it often to make it worthwhile.

You could also just put a tow hook on the front of the D and buy a tow strap. Some other boat launcher could help you with a pull if needed.

 

Hydra, so I shouldn't try to convert to an LSD using the stock parts? Just go full locker? (Have a shop do it, of course.)

 

To convert it to a LSD you would need to replace your carrier as the carrier cast itself is different where the clutch plates (Spider Gears) install. Someone could make a LSD setup for your current carrier but I don't know of anyone in particular. If it were me, I'd go to an electric locker or go buy some nice 31" mud tires.

 

I've heard of a powertrax unit that is a mix of an lsd and a locker (it's essentially a locker that engages when it detects slip). It's supposed to be installable without having to mess with all the tolerances in the gears.


Found the link:
http://www.powertrax.com/index.php/p...ertrax-no-slip

 

Hydra, I anticipated this problem, and got 31.5" Cooper Discoverer ATP's and they didnt help, haha!
Thanks that_guy, I'll check it out.

 

Those are referred to as 'lunchbox lockers', because you take then to work and can do the job over lunch (meaning it's easy). You only swap out the center gears of an open diff, without having to pull the carrier. They are not as strong as a full carrier based unit, but a lot of guys use them because of cost and install ease.