Driveline Opinions

[Kilian]

Provided that all components are healthy and functioning correctly, what are the pros/cons of using a full-time NP203 with limited slip differentials front and rear vs. using a part-time NP208 and front/rear LSD?

I've seen gas mileage with the NP203 is an issue, what else?

 

[Scott91370]

I'd say MPG and slightly more wear/tear with full time.

Pros, you'd always have 4wd.

 

[BKING33]

I had a limited slip posi in the frt axle on my last truck. With the frt hubs locked in you could not turn the truck on dry pavement. Worked fine of course with 4WD disengaged

 

[Kilian]

Thanks. I'm assuming that yours was a part-time 4WD setup?

 

[BKING33]

Yes it was a part time NP203. Worked great with slip posi's in both axles.

 

[Octane]

I like my old np203.I have 4 wd always and when I want to lock it into hi or low I can.And shift hi to low unlocked.And I can shift it on the go.I get 11 to12 mpg.

 

[77 K20]

With the full time 203 you won't get stuck then have to climb out in the snow/muck to lock in the hubs (hey- it happens). And since the truck is full time 4 you won't have any issues of the rear end suddenly trying to slide out on you in 2 wheel drive. A limited slip can cause you to lose side to side traction. You will have a low range you can use even on pavement.

The 208 has a lower geared low range. The aluminum case on this makes it lighter. Will probably get 1-2 more mpg out of it.