How Do I Identify the Limited Slip Rear Axles of a Ford 150?
by Robert Bayly
Rear axles come in two flavors, "open" and "limited-slip." The open rear axle only provides power to one rear wheel. Limited-slip axles transfer power to both wheels, yet allow the wheels to turn at different speeds when turning corners. Determining what type of limited-slip rear axle a Ford F-150 has can be accomplished two ways. After 1968, Ford cars and trucks have an axle code on a "Certification Plate," located on the driver's door. Ford rear axles also have an identification tag located on the rear axle itself. This information is used when purchasing replacement parts, a replacement rear axle, changing gear ratio or just talking shop with your friends.
Step 1
Locate the vehicle certification plate located on the inside edge of the driver's door near the door latch.
Step 2
Locate the information at the area on the tag marked "axle," or "ax." Write it down. You will need to look it up on the chart provided in the References section.
Step 3
Locate the axle identification tag on the rear axle on the differential cover bolt in the 12 o'clock position. The number in the lower left-hand corner is the gear ratio, for example, "3.08." If the number has an "L" in it, for example, "3L08," it is a limited-slip axle.
Step 4
Locate the number immediately to the right of the axle ratio. It identifies the ring gear diameter, for example, "8.8." Write it down. This is how the rear axle is described: "8.8" would mean you have an "8.8" rear axle.
References
Tips
- If you just want to know if your axle is limited-slip, there's a simple test. Drive the truck onto a dirt surface and come to a dead stop. Accelerate, using just enough throttle to cause the rear wheels to spin for a second. If both wheels spin, you have limited-slip axle.
Things You'll Need
- Pencil
- Paper
Warnings
- Be certain to write down your numbers correctly.
Writer Bio
Robert Bayly, based in Apple Valley, California, began writing in 2010, his "how to" articles can be found on eHow. With more than 15 years in the auto industry, Bayly has been an auto and diesel mechanic, service writer and parts manager. He received certificates from Pontiac (parts system), Cat Diesel (engine service), Saab and Fiat (parts- warranty system).
