I'm looking at a new S-Crew and see that the limited slip rear axle is an option and wondering if it is worth the extra cash?

I'm looking at the 4x2 Lariat with the 5.4L engine. I don't do a ton of towing, but occasionally have a boat to tow along on trips. Does the lim slip axle help out a lot on snow?

Thanks for the input-

 

Without question, a 'must have' option.

If you don't get it from the factory. it's only a matter of time before you are crawling up under there, getting all greasy and such.

 

If you ever travel where the roads can get slick (snow, mud or even rain) the limited slip is a "must have" in my opinion. You can get traction with at least 2 wheels when it starts getting slippery. A cheap option, IMHO.

 

It's an absolute bargain !!

 

Absolutley get it if you can.

 

Nah, I'd recommend not getting it, and then shelling out $800 to have it installed later. There's nothing like putting off till tomorrow what you could have installed today. I also purposely ordered my truck without air conditioning, a windshield, or paint. My goal is to spend as little as possible at purchase, and then as much as possible for overpriced OEM parts and labor.

I'm kidding of course.

 

GET IT!

 

If you haven't figured it out by now....the answer is YES...get it.

 

i have 3.08's and have never been stuck NEVER

 

Go to Tundrasolutions.com and search limited slip. Alot of owners complaining about Toyota's lack of that option.

 

and it snows lots up here in Central British Columbia. I still need 4x4 to get around at times . . . the LS doesn't do a thing in certain conditions . . . 4x4 is still necessary.

That beig said, I'm sure it helps a great deal in minor traction loss situations such as light snow or boat launches. etc. The times I have to use 4x4 is pretty rare especially if you are light on the throttle. If I didn't have LS, I'm sure I'd need it alot more. I don't think you can find a truck on the lot up here without it . . . no matter what make. That's saying someting :

Go for it !!!!!!!!!!

 

Ok- I guess the overwhelming answer is YES- GET IT!.

Thanks for the input- and on to my next question:

Does the lim slip require any different, or extra maintenance?

 

Limited Slip is well worth it. Beats spinning the tires on launching ramps and is noticeably better in the snow. While you are at it, look into available gear ratios. I have an '01 XCab XLT Sport Flareside with 3.55LS and P275/60R 17 BFG & Class3. I had an '00 XCab XLT with 3.31 open rear end and standard 16 inch wheels. Pulling a 5,000 boat, I would often put down 3 or 4 foot of rubber with any kind of throttle at a stop light with the '00. Not a problem at all with the '01. Even with a SuperChip, K&N filter and the fender opened up. Another thing. With the '00 & 3.31 axle, it would turn an indicated 1850 rpm @ 70 mph. The '01 turns an indicated 1950 rpm@ 70 mph. If I had to do it over again I would go to the 3.73 LS :). I ordered mine with the Sport package which gave me the dark grey interior, color keyed mirrors, 17 inch wheels and some other things I can't recall at the moment. I do not know if the Sport package applies to the Lariat. Spend some time going through the option book at the dealer as it's a *LOT* cheaper to order what you want now rather than having it added later. Enjoy.

 

There IS a down side to limited slip. Read the posts on noisy rear ends, friction modifier problems, etc. Perhaps the biggest negative is the tendency for the rear end trying to pass the front end if you give it too much throttle around a corner in slippery conditions. It happens fast but you do get to see the astonished expression on the face of the person that was behind you. Personally, I find a limited slip to be more of a day to day pain-in-the-a$$ than it's worth. If you have serious traction concerns, a 4x4 is a better solution.

 

I would only get a truck without LS if either 1) I could get a locking rear diff. or if the truck had full time 4 wheel drive. Since neither of these are an option on the Ford, I highly recommend the LS. Daily, I have to go up a steep hill with a sharp S turn slowly. Often, I back up it - with the LS I never have a problem. Without it, I've spun wheels like mad at times. Also, it is remarkable the number of times I see Tundras spinning their wheels at lights in the rain (no LS). Not for me. As I said, either LS, locking rear diff. or full time 4 wheel drive.

You will not be sorry getting the LS.

Jono.