Upgrading to LS Differential

[amyrvik]

If the differential in my '02 ST is not limited slip can I buy the parts and install them in the current axle to get this feature? Is the job difficult to do? I do most of my own maintenance but have not really taken a rear axle apart and put new parts in it.

I will appreciate any input from the forum on this subject.

Alan

 

[MrShorty]

You may be able to.

If the parts are available, the easiest (and often cheapest) would be to install a lunchbox locker.

If you really want a limited slip, you usually have to replace the carrier, which means setting up the gears. Setting up gears is not usually a job recommended for someone who hasn't done it before. If you decide to go this route, you'll want to do some research and find some good instructions for setting up gears and also find someone who can coach you through it.

An easier approach might be to find a complete used differential from a junkyard, replace the LS clutches, and replace the complete differential (to avoid having to set up the gears).

 

[ericautopart]

Or just buy an 8.8 31 Spl LSD and bring it to a place who can do it. It's still cheaper than replacing the entire rear especially when you don't know what your getting. They aren't expensive..$300 on the high end and I've seen the Ford Racing ones for less than that. Figure 500 w/ labor installed. Worth it? Nope.