Trac Loc for a 8

I am needing to upgrade my 8" rearend (non posi) to a posi rearend. Does trac loc make one for a 8" ? If so how does it work, Does it just replace the spider gears? How long does it take to install? Do you have to set up your ring and pinion again or not? Does it work better than a spool or a locker? How is the drivability, Is it sreet safe unlike a spool? Also do they make any noice going around corners. Anyone else out there using one - Any opinions would be great. Thanks in advance.

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: BLACK65FORDFALCON on 7/23/04 2:55am ]</font>

Find the specific brand you are going to purchase. Auburn, Detriot looker etc.....then We can give you a better answer.
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I have a Ford TracLoc and it is a clutch type differential. Mine is a 9" but they are almost identical to the 8" versions, albeit much more common.
It is similar to the open diff but it uses spring loaded clutches (frictions and steels like in an auto tranny) to loc the two axles under most conditions. The breakaway torque overrides the spring loading and allows the axles to rotate at different speeds when there is traction (like in a turn) Friction modifier in the axle lube makes it even more slippery to release smoothly. If you run axle lube without the modifier, the higher friction will cause the clutches to chatter when they release. The clutch linings do wear out, leading to the peg leg.
Lockers are far more durable, but clunk more on release and can cause some driveability quirks, but they are far more streetable than a spool. Spools are pretty harsh.

How does the trac loc install, Do you have to set up the ring and pinion again, Because I don't really wan't to do that again - It was pricy enough the first time around. A friend of mine said that you can install one in about an hour quick and easy. Do you need to upgrade your axles? How much strain is the trac loc going to put on my rearend? Am I going to be breaking pieces at the track with this. Thanks for any more help on this matter.

Well, an hour is pretty quick. You have to pull the axles, drop the pumpkin, pull the diff bearing caps, pull the diff out of the pumpkin, unbolt the ring gear from the diff, press off the bearings from the open diff, press them on the trac loc, then reverse the process, stopping to check the backlash, which is pretty simple (if you've done it before) but does require a micrometer and stand (no big expense at all.)
No, traclocs are not hard on anything, some might argue they are too soft, but for moderate duty, more than adequate. I think all the 8 inchers have 28 splines, but as usual, I could be way off.

The trac-loc is an old, clutch type design. The clutches wear out quickly, and need replaced on a regular basis. One or two one wheel burnouts, and the clutches are toasted.

My advice is to go to the aftermarket. If drag racing is what you are interested in, go for the Detroit Locker. Yes, Tractech (the makers of the original Detroit) make an 8" version. They also make a 'Torsen' type unit that uses helical gears instead of clutches. These are GREAT street and roadrace units. They don't hold up to WFO launches on slicks with a stickshift, but neither do trac-locs, or their original 28 spline axles. (8 inch rears don't use 31 spline axles) This Torsen type is also made by Tractech, and is called the Trutrac... and there is one available for the 8" rear. I know the 9" version is VERY reasonably priced.

http://www.tractech.com

I believe http://www.maeracing.com sells both units. You'll want to call them to be sure and to check stock. They have very good prices on them. I'm sure Randys Ring and Pinion also carries these units. http://ringpinion.com

If the ring and pinion are not replaced, installation is relatively easy. Once the third member is removed, clean the unit with gasoline to remove all the gear oil. This will allow you to get an accurate check of the backlash. Write this down, and replace the open diff with the new one. Reset the backlash to the original specs and reinstall. The pinion will not need removed, so shims and pinion depth don't need messed with.

Good Luck!

Good Luck!
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