Limited Slip front and rear diffs + snow pavement ?

[Diezel]

Ok folks, I'd like to think I'm pretty damn knowledgeable on things, but I've hit a question that I don't have a solid answer in my brain for.

I know on the stock 2001 4Runner on wet/snow/slush pavement, you can use 4WD with the center locker OFF, or ON if it's super slippery.

Well, I now have Limited Slip Diffs front and rear (Eaton TrueTrac).

What are the Pro's, Con's, Problems, or am I just over thinking it?

I'll be driving from the Bay Area of CA up into my new home in Washington, pulling a trailer. And going through the snow zones in OR and WA, as long as I have 4wd w/ M+S tires (as I do currently have). I should be ok law wise as long as I'm carrying chains/cables (which I will be).

But I don't know if there will be issues on pavement driving in 4wd with the LSD's and center diff ON/OFF without chains.
I also suspect that if I am chained up, Center Diff should be Off ?

Thoughts, comments, bashing me for being a wuss, welcomed.... :rofl:

 

[T4R2014]

I think that'll be a great setup, way less aggressive than the full spool of a locker. 4Hi unlocked should be totally fine on pavement, since the LSD needs some spin to get working. Now, I'm thinking this from the function of a clutch type LSD and I realize the TrueTrac is a full mechanical design. That said I've driven GM vehicles with the G80 in the rear and unless you subject it to a serious driveline shock, they are very predictable and manageable if you are familiar with the vehicle. If you need chains then I would assume 4HI locked would be fine since the road surface will still allow slip if it warrants chains. I'd still recommend trying out different modes to determine what works best for you.

 

[phattyduck]

Unlikely you'll need to install chains...

I've seen a ton of different opinions on this with F/R Truetracs and snow. I just put mine in this summer, so no experience with snow performance yet (SoCal, only get to snow once in a while).

Use 4HiU unless you have traction issues, then go to 4HiL. Be extra careful when applying power - gear-type LSDs love to drift in low-traction situations (had this with my Alltrac with an open front, viscous center and Torsen rear). You'll go - but often sideways with that forward movement.

I can feel steering stiffen up a bit even at speed on the dirt when in 4WD (j-shift here), so I expect similar changes if you lock the center diff even on packed snow.

-Charlie

 

[JZiggy]

Double LSD is good in snow from my experience.

Would go unlocked in high traction situations like asphalt.

Being an 01 with ATRAC will help even more.

 

[Diezel]

Appreciate the input all! Takes a huge load off my mind.