Differential

[justins81213]

Have a 2006 Ford ranger sport 3.0 2wd.
I got a new job and I have to drive 20 miles on a somewhat curvy and holy road. I'm thinking ahead about winter. Is there anything I can do to my truck to help it handle better in winter conditions? Someone was telling me about a lockrite I can get put into my differential and they only cost about 200. I don't know what a lockrite is would it be worth the investment or does anyone have any better ideas that aren't too expensive?

 

[sgtsandman]

One thing to keep in mind with those kinds of lockers is they make a loud ratcheting sound on turns. Also, if you aren't used to lockers, you can lose your back end pretty quick in bad road conditions. You might be better served looking for an axle from a scrap/junk/recycling yard that has a limited slip in it and just swap axles.

 

[pjtoledo]

how much snow and ice do you get?
would it be worth having a set of dedicated winter tires?

I drove my 2005 Reg cab, rwd, in all conditions with about 400 lbs in the bed and dedicated winter tires.
there is a huge difference between all-season tires and dedicated winter tires.

you asked about "handling in winter conditions"
2wd will "handle" better in light to moderate snow & ice while lockers and limited slips will plow thru heavier stuff better.
if you have a rear sway bar, remove it. they lift the inside tire on curves and corners. great for dry pavement, not so great for wet or slippery.

 

[justins81213]

We get moderate snow and ice and occasionally heavy

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

First thing is to invest in studded snow tires with lots of sipes, ON ALL 4 CORNERS [you need to be able to steer too]. Add some weight to the box in winter time. Make sure the weight is secured, you don't want it coming thru the cab in an accident.

 

[8thTon]

First thing is to invest in studded snow tires with lots of sipes, ON ALL 4 CORNERS [you need to be able to steer too]. Add some weight to the box in winter time. Make sure the weight is secured, you don't want it coming thru the cab in an accident.

I agree, except for the studs. Modern snow tires don't need them and they reduce traction in some conditions. I loaded the bed with sand tubes from tractor supply and it worked quite well, even with just Goodyear Wranglers.

 

[don4331]

I agree, except for the studs. Modern snow tires don't need them and they reduce traction in some conditions.

All depends on the snow/ice conditions, but I have never seen a condition where studs reduced traction.

Recognize, alwayFlOoReD (and myself) are north of the rust belt for snow condition discussions (heck, he's an hour north of me). When its -20C (-4F) or colder, salt isn't doing anything, even the 'soft' rubber of winter tires is hard and you need something to dig into the ice - either sand or studs.

Justin:

What is your axle code off the door; just want to confirm if you already have a limited slip or not.

 

[justins81213]

It says f6 on the door

 

[justins81213]

I looked it up on here and I think it's already limited slip, I have 4 brand new a/s Wrangler tires on it so would my best option be to just add weight or is there anything else I can do to it?

 

[sgtsandman]

If you already have a limited slip, then snow tires all the way around is your only real option. This assuming you L/S is operating correctly. Depending on the type you have, the clutches could be worn.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

a/s Wrangler tires

If you mean all season wrangler tires I would seriously look at a snow tire mounted on cheap rims. If money is an issue, look for good used, sometimes they are already mounted. CL, FBM, or local classifieds.

 

[ericbphoto]

Agreed. Good snow tires and good winter driving skills are all you really need. Adding weight can help.

There are some other threads in this forum that really hash out the pros, cons, myths and opinions concerning added weight, proper tires and limited slip vs lockers vs open differentials. If you're bored, find one of those threads and start reading. I suggest a cold beer, bowl of popcorn and comfortable recliner.

 

[justins81213]

Would tire chains be an ok alternative?

 

[ericbphoto]

Tire chains are great for heavy snow. But you don't want to leave them on all the time in most cases. Once you install them a couple times, you'll find out it isn't very fun. Good winter tires will handle the majority of your winter driving and you just put them on at the beginning of winter and take them off when winter seems to be finished. Much easier and more convenient.

 

[justins81213]

If I get studdable tires do I need all four or just the rear since that's my drive wheels?