Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Limited Slip Additive

[stevespencer]

I have a 2001 2500 with a limited slip rear-end. The rig has 30k miles on it. I encountered some rear-end chatter after a long uphill run with my cab-over camper on. Took it to the dealer for a rear-end warranty checkup. They drained the fluid, checked for metal filings or wear, and then refilled it. Instead of putting in the Mopar limited slip additive, they put in a product called 'Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer'. Not knowing precisely what the purpose of the limited-slip additive is, I question whether the Lucas product is an appropriate additive.



Any insight would be appreciated.

 

[jwilliams3]

I would add half a tube of Trans X limited slip additive (cost about 4 bucks at auto zone).

It is what I use, and I have no chatter, and my limited slip hooks up very well! (proved this with a number of burnouts)

I dont think the oil stabilizer was the appropiate additive, it is more like a general oil enhancement product that is supposed to make the oil stick longer to provide better lubrication over a period of time (I got to see the little lucas display at a local auto parts store).



--Justin

 

[dalton4]

Maybe you should contact the Dodge head shed and ask why a dealer is replacing a specific Mopar product with the named product used and do they approve of its use. By name, it sounds like the two products are entirely different animals.



Jerry

 

[andrewkoperdak]

I got my friction modifier just last month from the dealer. They did not mention any alternative choices. At $8 for 4 ounces I would like more choices.

Andy

 

[Mark Baker]

How often should the friction modifier be added? I know this is dependent upon type of driving/usage, but what is an general go-by?

 

[TowPro]

I put the Amsoil "whatever/140 in, skipped the additive and have not had a problem.



But last time I changed it I put Mobil synthetic in, and hit the dealer up for the additive, I can't remember put I think I threw the whole bottle in. I have a limited slip that works (unlike most I hear) but still, never had a problem with chatter.

 

[raiste]

I got a question on the LS. I have it, at least that's what the window sticker says. But the other day I was going up a steep driveway, the left wheels were on wet grass and the right wheels were on pavement. The left wheels spun and spun but the right ones did not do anything. I had to put it in 4WD to get off the grass.



Should the LS have stopped the left wheels from spinning and put the power to the right wheels? At least I thought that was what it's for.



I haven't tried to jack up the back yet to be sure I have LS. Is there a way I can tell if is not working like it is supposed to?



My truck only has 6000 miles on it.

 

[Pit Bull]

Originally posted by Mark Baker

How often should the friction modifier be added? I know this is dependent upon type of driving/usage, but what is an general go-by?

Mark it is only added if you change the fluid. I changed mine at 50K miles to Mobil 1 75w90 and had to add about 8 oz's of the stinky Mopar limited slip additive. It has been suggested that you only use the Mopar additive and only add it 2 oz's at a time, since it seems that all rearends are not addjusted the same from the factory. Use the owners manual to determine when you need to change the fluid. I would suggest that if you tow and haul heavy and alot you would want to get the Mag-Hytec differential cover since you will be changing the fluid often. If your truck is a daily driver the manual says you never have to change the fluid. I don't buy that and I went with a 50K interval for the fluid change, which does not justify the cost of the Mag-Hytec cover. Its your call.

 

[Mark Baker]

Sounds like good advice, Pit Bull, Thanks. I really like that Mag-tech cover, especially the magnetic dipstick which captures that damaging grunge.

 

[willyslover]

guys for some very good info on rear end and limited slip there are some very good threads in archives. . do a search



Pit Bull is very close in his recommendations... however 2 oz at a time is a bunch... do it in 1 oz increments and do the figure 8's in each direction... then a small burn out patch or some tight turns and watch for chatter, and see whats up... these things are very different, when each one is assembled , there are differences in clutch packs and adjustments so a little to much additive can make yours go over the edge so to speak and you will have a heavy weight back there with no benifit. .