My 05 XLT 4x4 has a non-LS axle code. How can I have 4x4 without LS? Can't believe that would even be an option....

what is the easiest/cheapest way to convert over to LS. Winter driving in snow without LS sucks (from previous experience).

 

yea there are alot of 4x4s with an open diff... cheapest way would be to go to the junk yard and get the (depending on the gear ratios) front and rear axles out of an fx4, other then that get a locker

 

The front axle is open in all F150 4x4s. Just because it is an FX4 does not mean it has a LS rear. You also do not want a LS for the front. You will have a tendency to go straight is slippery conditions, even with the wheel turned.

 

is ls part of the fx4 package? that was my understanding, ls, skids, things to 4x4, and yes i know the front is always open, i said front because does the front not have a differnt gear ratio if you have 3.73 because i doubt my truck with 3.55 would have the same front diff as a truck with 3.73 in the rear

 

FX4's do not all have LS. Depending upon the model year, it was an option. Also the 09 up are lockers, but only while in 4x4 and only below 25mph. Otherwise it is an open. You can often find LS in all ratios, except I believe the 3.38. So it may not be necessary to get both if he can match what he already has.

 

Cheapest and easiest isn't usually the best way to do something. If you are really cheap you could find a used limited slip carrier from the same type of axle and have it installed in your axle. This requires removing the current carrier, unbolting the ring gear from it, and typically setting up the gears again. The factory limited slip is a clutch based unit that wears out quickly, so it's a 50/50 chance that you'll install one that is worn out.

If you really want a limited slip, the best thing to do is buy a new gear driven limited slip (detroit tru-trac) and have it installed.

 

Thanks for the input guys, FYI mine has a axle code 19 which means it is 3.55 non-LS.

Is it safe to assume a 31-spline?