I'm struggling to think of any. Why would Ford, or any other manufacturer for that matter, continue to make non-limited slip diff's when it appear a LS Diff has some rather large advantages?

 

$$$$$$

 

That's it, money. Besides, the vast majority of the population doesn't need a limited slip (or locking) differential 99% of the time. So, why increase the cost (and price) of the vehicle when you don't have to. The general solution? Make it an option. You'd be surprised how few F-150's actually go out the door with that option on them.

 

Costwise one of Fords best buys.

It's like $200 option from Ford but, try to do it aftermarket and the numbers run $600-$1200.

 

I'm just new to F150 ownership - having last month traveled to Florida to purchase my truck. So I'm driving a USA model in the snowy white Canadian north. My disadvantage is at intersections...starting up and turning on snowy or slippery roads. There's always spin. Starting in 2nd gear helps.

 

In addition to cost, there's also a safety factor.

For drivers not accustomed to it, LSD can start the rear-end whipping back and forth on slick surfaces. An open diff will simply spin a wheel(s) without the back-and-forth motion.

It's similar to why cars are tuned to understeer...the car's behavior is more predictable for the average driver.

 

Cost and simplicity.

If something goes wrong between the two rear ends, its the clutches burn up 300-400 bucks. Open diffs usually dont fry unless they run low on fluid