SpynTec

[JHRider]

I have a '13 3500 DRW CC Auto 4X4 with 3.42 gears. It's not a good match to my 16k lb 5th wheel in parking maneuvers. I've seen mention of using a SpynTec locking hubs and 4X4 low range to overcome that problem and not loose the highway advantage of the 3.42 gears. Anybody on here actually done this?

 

[Wayne M.]

You're asking about running 4lo with the hubs unlocked? Yes no problem. I have spyntecs and love em.
I don't know of any changes from my 04 to your 13, but you have DRW, and I don't think there's a wheel restriction like some 4 gen SRW. GO for it!

 

[Deleted member 995608]

Not sure how the 2013 front axle works compared to my 16, but I think this is what you're looking for. 2wd low range kit: https://www.turbodieselregister.com...e-2wd-Unlock-Kit-review?p=2476411#post2476411

 

[kthaxton]

Not sure how the 2013 front axle works compared to my 16, but I think this is what you're looking for. 2wd low range kit: https://www.turbodieselregister.com...e-2wd-Unlock-Kit-review?p=2476411#post2476411

Saweet, I didn't know they made such a thing. Years ago, I attempted to do something similar with the old vacuum actuated CAD system by controlling vacuum switches. I didn't really try very hard and gave up....later I just added manual hubs. I'm lazy like that.

 

[JHRider]

So if I use the "BD 2Low Unlock" the transfer case down shifts to 4wheel low but the BD kit keeps the front axle from being active. With the Spyn Tec the front axle is still active but the hubs are unlocked. I guess if price is the only consideration then the BD kit is a no brainer. But with the Spyn Tec hubs have the advantage that the front wheel drive is totally disconnected in 2wheel drive which will be a fuel and hardware saver. What to do what to do??? Thanks for the opinions and options.

 

[Deleted member 995608]

So if I use the "BD 2Low Unlock" the transfer case down shifts to 4wheel low but the BD kit keeps the front axle from being active. With the Spyn Tec the front axle is still active but the hubs are unlocked. I guess if price is the only consideration then the BD kit is a no brainer. But with the Spyn Tec hubs have the advantage that the front wheel drive is totally disconnected in 2wheel drive which will be a fuel and hardware saver. What to do what to do??? Thanks for the opinions and options.

I think the $148 price tag for the BD is a no brainer:
https://www.dieselperformance.com/s...0-2009-2016-2500-2014-2016-3500-2013-2016-586

 

[jhenderson]

From my experience it'd be cheap at twice the price.

 

[kthaxton]

So if I use the "BD 2Low Unlock" the transfer case down shifts to 4wheel low but the BD kit keeps the front axle from being active. With the Spyn Tec the front axle is still active but the hubs are unlocked. I guess if price is the only consideration then the BD kit is a no brainer. But with the Spyn Tec hubs have the advantage that the front wheel drive is totally disconnected in 2wheel drive which will be a fuel and hardware saver. What to do what to do??? Thanks for the opinions and options.

With a front axle disconnect in 2wd, there is very, very little drag and virtually no affect on mileage vs no axle disconnect.

If access to 2-low for maneuvering a trailer is your only goal, I don't know why you want to go through the time and expense of the Spyn Tec conversion with the BD system available.

 

[JHRider]

I'm really a sucker for hardware but I think you're right on this. BD 2Lo switch it is.
Thanks for the responses.

 

[S.Morris]

You say 2013, ? Is it at 2013.5 + with disconnecting long side shaft or same as 04-13. If its the last of the old, this won't work. If 13.5 you got it made!

 

[JHRider]

Just a short update on the BD 2LO switch. Took the rig to Colorado end of July. Used the switch every time I parked in a new location with great results. I highly recommend it.

 

[Kilroy]

Just a short update on the BD 2LO switch. Took the rig to Colorado end of July. Used the switch every time I parked in a new location with great results. I highly recommend it.

thanks for update

 

[RBertalotto]

Yes, I do this all the time when pulling a very heavy boat up a concrete ramp and have to make a hard turn at the top of the ramp. Very easy to modulate the speed in 2wd low.
http://http://rvbprecision.com/rv-projects/ems-off-road-free-wheeling-kit-install.html