Question about 3rd members

[3rdgenfan]

I have a friend that has a front and rear 3rd members that he was gave to him. He says I can have them but before I take them and tear every thing apart just want to make sure its an upgrade. He is sure the rear is a lsd. I have a picture so someone can fill me in. I am sure you are suppose to do the front and rear together so the gear ratios are the same.

This is the rear


The front


Another question. I was looking at this thing the other day. It is bolted to the transfer case. Does it serve a purpose? It almost looks like a mount but nothing is there. Is it ok to remove?

 

[zgensler31]

Well the front is worthless to you, as it is for a solid axle. I have no idea how to identify of the rear is a lsd, but id imagine those that do know would need some better pictures of the internals.

The thing on your transfer case is a dampeneder to help reduce vibrations. You coukd remove it, but it would, in effect, add more vibrations to the drivetrain.

 

[NateMob]

I removed my dampner because I could hear it shake against my skid plate. I've noticed no increase in vibration.

 

[3rdgenfan]

I just figured it was something that could get snagged on the trail. Someone who knows a good bit about factory lsd rear ends please help me out. I can get better pics of the 3rd member. I know cell phone pics are great.

 

[the great him]

well if he is telling you its a factory LSD then he is wrong, no 8"s came with LSDs, and that is a old school 8" it would actually be a downgrade for you as you currently have heavier carrier bearings in your "ifs/v6" 8" diff.

 

[Kurtis]

From the blurry picture it looks like a lunch box locker.

 

[Rockdawg84]

From the blurry picture it looks like a lunch box locker.

exactly. not a LSD but it is a lunchbox locker. Those are both 4 cylinder 3rd members and will bolt in but The Kid is right and your current rear diff is stronger. But you could sell those and maybe have enough to put a v6 lunchbox locker in yours.

 

[3rdgenfan]

exactly. not a LSD but it is a lunchbox locker. Those are both 4 cylinder 3rd members and will bolt in but The Kid is right and your current rear diff is stronger. But you could sell those and maybe have enough to put a v6 lunchbox locker in yours.

Thanks for the info. Still learning here.