Scrappy is right - they eliminated the CAD system starting in 2003. Most people think this is awful, but I actually like it. The only difference between the 3rd gen and 2nd gen systems is that in the 3rd gen the front driveshaft is spinning all the time.
But I'm willing to trade the CAD part count for spinning the front driveshaft all the time.
Ryan
My '97 and my '05 are almost identical mpg
My '97 and my '05 are almost identical mpg
It is not just the driveshaft that doesn't turn, the ring and pinion and their bearings do not turn either. Prior to getting locking hubs I measured the temperature of the front differential at the pinion bearing on my 05. After a long trip it was 143 degrees F. This shows there is friction and drag even when not using 4x4. Now keep in mind that while driving the gear oil and the entire axle housing in the air flowing under the vehicle will dissipate heat, yet the outside of the pumpkin was still 143F at the pinion bearing! So the there is more energy wasted and needless wear on more components than with the CAD system.In terms of drivetrains, the only difference between the two is the front driveshaft is always spinning on the '05. Both trucks spin the entire front axle assembly constantly.
I've never really understood all the outrage at the 3rd gen setup versus the 2nd gen setup when they really differ only by the front driveshaft rotation.
Ryan
When I changed diff. oil at 9200 miles my rear oil stunk to high heaven and was black as our engine oil. Conversely,the front was like honey. I'd love one of these kits,but it's going to have to wait for awhile. Probably income tax time.
The difference was probably one is open and one is a LSD?? The black was clutch material...
nope, no clutches in a 3rd gen LSD, They are gear type. it was black because it spent its whole life under the load of moving the truck and whatever else. The front was just freewheeling.