Joined
·
1,316 Posts
If you have a CAD unit front axle, ONLY a selectable locker can be used unless you disable the CAD unit. You won't feel a posi in the front unless you are in 4x4. Some ratchet lockers will be virtually unnoticeable, too- like lockrights. Full case detroits will let you know they are there when the springs wind up and release the lock mechanism even in 2wd, though.
As to the rear, I'll note that pulling the cover is pretty easy, and you can SEE if you have preload springs from a posi. Spinning a tire can be misleading, if in neutral, it may spin the other side the same way, but without load on the posi, or the wrong oil, it might NOT even if it's a good working positraction. If in gear/park, it will spin the other backwards anyway. My favorite test is to jack up only one wheel, block the tires and put it in neutral and THEN spin it. This way you can FEEL the initial resistance from the clutchpacks. Once the clutchpacks break loose, they will offer much less resistance as the friction discs will get a film of oil on them until you stop spinning and let it rest. Then the preload springs will push the film off and snug it up again.
Ring And Pinion Gears, Axles and Axle Shafts, Drivetrain Parts and Tools - Accu Auto Parts has rebuild kits for the posi, but they are PRICEY. I would verify the condition of the axle before ordering the parts.
As to the rear, I'll note that pulling the cover is pretty easy, and you can SEE if you have preload springs from a posi. Spinning a tire can be misleading, if in neutral, it may spin the other side the same way, but without load on the posi, or the wrong oil, it might NOT even if it's a good working positraction. If in gear/park, it will spin the other backwards anyway. My favorite test is to jack up only one wheel, block the tires and put it in neutral and THEN spin it. This way you can FEEL the initial resistance from the clutchpacks. Once the clutchpacks break loose, they will offer much less resistance as the friction discs will get a film of oil on them until you stop spinning and let it rest. Then the preload springs will push the film off and snug it up again.
Ring And Pinion Gears, Axles and Axle Shafts, Drivetrain Parts and Tools - Accu Auto Parts has rebuild kits for the posi, but they are PRICEY. I would verify the condition of the axle before ordering the parts.