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How do I know if my F250 has a limited slip differential?

If you own a Ford F250 pickup truck, you may be wondering whether your vehicle is equipped with a limited slip differential. A limited slip differential is a type of differential that helps improve traction and handling, especially in off-road or slippery conditions. Here's how you can determine if your F250 has this feature.


What is a Limited Slip Differential?


A limited slip differential is a type of differential that allows for some degree of difference in the rotational speed of the two wheels on the same axle. This is in contrast to a standard open differential, which allows for a large difference in wheel speed, which can lead to a loss of traction in certain situations.


The limited slip differential works by using a series of clutches or gears to limit the amount of difference in wheel speed. This helps to distribute power more evenly to both wheels, improving traction and handling, especially in off-road or slippery conditions.


How to Identify a Limited Slip Differential in Your F250


There are a few ways to determine if your Ford F250 is equipped with a limited slip differential:



  • Check the Rear Axle Label: Look for a label on the rear axle housing that indicates the type of differential, such as "Limited Slip" or "Locking Differential".

  • Inspect the Rear Differential: Visually inspect the rear differential housing. If you see a series of clutch plates or gears, it's likely a limited slip differential.

  • Check the Vehicle Documentation: Refer to the owner's manual or other documentation provided with your F250 to see if it mentions the type of differential.

  • Ask the Dealer: If you're unsure, contact the dealer where you purchased the vehicle or a Ford service center to inquire about the type of differential in your F250.


Knowing whether your F250 has a limited slip differential can be important, as it can affect the vehicle's performance and handling, especially in off-road or slippery conditions. If you're unsure, it's best to consult with a professional or refer to your vehicle's documentation to determine the type of differential in your truck.

How do I tell what differential I have?


If the ID tag or stamp is missing or unreadable, differentials can be identified by the number of cover bolts, the distinctive shape of the cover, the number of ring gear bolts, and ring gear diameter. They can also be identified by whether the center section is an integral or dropout design.



How to identify Ford differential?


And that just tells me that it's a 373 ratio it's an 8.8 in differential. Sometimes they'll have a limited slip. And they'll throw an L in between the first two numbers. So you'll see a 3 l 7388.



Is limited slip the same as posi?


Posi-traction, also known as a limited slip differential (LSD), is a differential option that strikes a balance between an open and locking differential. Its purpose is to improve traction without sacrificing drivability.



Is positraction the same as limited slip?


Limited Slip Differentials (LSD) significantly increase the traction and performance of Jeeps, trucks, 4×4s, and RWD vehicles on the street, at the strip, or on the trail. Positraction is what General Motors called its limited slip differential, the term has come to refer to LSDs in general.



How do I know what Ford differential I have?


And that just tells me that it's a 373 ratio it's an 8.8 in differential. Sometimes they'll have a limited slip. And they'll throw an L in between the first two numbers. So you'll see a 3 l 7388.



What did Ford call their limited slip differential?


Traction-Lok
Within a few years, other American automotive brands introduced similar systems under a variety of names, including Safe-T-Track for GM's Pontiac brand and Anti Spin for its Oldsmobile brand, while the Ford Motor Company introduced Traction-Lok for Ford vehicles and Directed Power for its Lincoln cars.



How to tell if your differential is limited-slip?


Jack up the rear by the diff. Turn one rear tire forward. If the other tire spins in the same direction, you have LSD. If it turns in the opposite direction, it an open rear. From the sounds of your glove box sticker, you have an open rear.



Does Ford offer a limited slip differential?


The system is active at all times and requires no driver interaction. Watch this video to learn more about the Electronic Limited-slip Differential.



How do you tell the difference between limited-slip and non-limited slip differential?


The fastest way of determining if you've got a limited slip is just to jack up the rearend to get both tires off the ground. Then with the transmission in neutral, spin one tire by hand and note the direction the opposite tire spins. If it spins the same direction, you've got a limited slip.



How do I know if my Ford has a limited slip differential?


To determine the axle ratio of your vehicle, locate the two-digit axle code first, then use your vehicle's towing guide to find the axle ratio that corresponds to that code. If your vehicle has a limited-slip differential, it will be noted as Limited Slip.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.