how strong is the CAD collar? welding front diff

[Coalsmoke]

Does anyone know just how strong these connecting axle collars are (or are not)? I am contemplating welding the front, as I am a good welder, but not rich enough for a selectable locker. I am always needing that extra bit of traction, especially with all the mud we get around here. I have a cable-selectable CAD control (posi-lok) which should let me run in 2wd, 3wd, or 4wd. I have looked into this for a while, and was originally planning on putting something like a detroit locker into the front. Either way the front drive-train will always be spinning like on the newer models that don't have the CAD, and because the TC oils so long as the rear drive shaft is spinning, it should be ok. But, I am worried that because my truck weighs around 10,600lbs, it might be too much stress for the front axle system.



Other relevant information:

- horsepower is stock and will remain so for the most part,

- tires are 33" M-55, so not a super agressive mudder just a general all-terrain style tread.



The only other concern I now have is that some people have recently been mentioning the possibility of torque steer when in 3wd, because only one tire is applying power. I'm wondering if anyone has first hand experience with these trucks with regards to having one front wheel locked in and driving while cornering? This is a new concept to me, never heard about it untill recently so I definitely appreciate any accurate feedback that anyone can give.



Thanks guys,

long live CTD Oo.

 

[Hoefler]

In 3 wd, you will have a hard time going straight. It is like only having one front brake and you are trying to come to a quick stop. I experienced the 3 wd drive in a mud run I was competing in, right front axle broke, steered hard right and up out of the pit and rolled the truck on its side. With pro nitrous at about 1000 hp, foot on the floor, I could not react fast enough. But what a ride!!!

 

[Coalsmoke]

I wonder if 3wd would be alright for speeds of 30mph and under? that's about as fast as I would ever go if I have to be using 4X4 on a road? Its mostly on worksites.

 

[vegasredneck]

Don't do it. It makes for a miserable driving truck I'm serious. I once did a lincoln locker (welded dif) even with power steering. If you got on the throttle just a little it would rip the wheel right out of your hand and that was with only one wheel locked in. When you locked both forget about turning it was a staight shot or stop turn and then ease into the throttle

 

[Coalsmoke]

huh. well thanks for the input vegasredneck. I wouldn't have imagined it to be that bad.

 

[pwerwagn]

I will agree with vegasredneck. I had a spool'd front end once. I used to unlock the drivers side hub all the time to make steering easier. it was still a pain, and hard on axle joints.



If you have the posi lock, why weld the collar?? It wont necessarily be any stronger welded than functioning as it was intended.



I think you would probably be fine, strength wise, with a locker up front though, if you want to go that route.



--Jeff

 

[Coalsmoke]

wasn't referring to welding the collar. That would defeat the purpose of the pois-lok. I was wondering if the collar would be strong enough to handle a welded diff.