Can I install a powertrax in a diff that already has a truetrac?

[Michael Alzen]

So I've got an HP30 up front with a detroit truetrac in it. After some searching it looks like I'd be able to install a powertrax myself in an open diff, but since there's a truetrac in there, is it still a relatively simple install? Do I need to buy an open carrier first? My differential knowledge is woefully limited.

Thanks!

 

[Rob5589]

Yes, you need an open carrier

 

[Michael Alzen]

Thanks!

Will replacing the carrier be equivalent to setting up gears like when I had the truetrac installed? I generally do all my own work, but I've never messed with gears after reading some horror stories about it.

Do I need to have a shop do it since I'll be pulling the truetrac, or is it still simple enough that a home garage mechanic can tackle it?

 

[Jerry Bransford]

You can replace the Truetrac with an open differential without doing a full gear setup. The only thing you'll need to do is shim the new open carrier left or right to get the required backlash. Your existing gear setup will be fine if you get the backlash set properly. There's plenty of information available on Youtube and Google on how to check and adjust a carrier's backlash.

You'll need a dial indicator with a magnetic base like this one used to check my ring gear's backlash (rotational slop). Harbor Freight Tools carries one that is fine for this job.

You didn't say which Powertrax lunchbox locker you're going with but if you get their No-Slip, it doesn't clicking sounds when making turns in 2wd like their Lockrite and the Aussie lunchbox lockers do.

 

[Rob5589]

Like Jerry said, backlash only. Pull the old bearings and use the same shims. You may get lucky and be right on. At a minimum you'll be close. Measure the bl prior to removal to know where you should be.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

Like Jerry said, backlash only. Pull the old bearings and use the same shims. You may get lucky and be right on. At a minimum you'll be close. Measure the bl prior to removal to know where you should be.

That last bit of advice bears repeating.

 

[Michael Alzen]

Perfect. Thanks, guys!