Spool or not to spool, that tis the question!

[78BO]

Ok, so I found out the P/O changed out the 373's for 308's. I've been looking at regearing but that would still leave me with no posi. So I've been playing with the idea of getting a spool. I would much rather have a locker (detroit) but at this time I can't really afford to spend 400+ on a locker, and 200 on the gears AND have them installed. So the spool (for now) is looking good. A cheap fix to my problem. But if I could find a stock rearend that has either posi or limited slip and 373's that would be even better. So I guess I'm asking which year modle trucks should I be looking for or should I just spool the one I have?

What's your opinion?

Bryan

[swb85]

I'm not one of those guys that says don't ever run a spool on the street no matter what.........but don't put a spool in your truck unless you upgrade to aftermarket axles with c-clip eliminators. You WILL snap a factory axle with a spool on the street.....I've seen it happen. The loads on the inside axle during a turn are tremendous, and a factory axle can't/won't take it for very long.

[3r!c84]

ive got a question.whats the difference between a spool and a posi?

[Keith Seymore]

A spool locks both axles together solidly (like having one axle all the way through). A spool has no moving parts.

A posi still allows differential action, but provides limited slipping between the rear wheels when one is on a slick surface.

K

[Keith Seymore]

BTW - is this your daily driver?

I have a spool in my Chevelle, which sees limited street use, so you know I'm not a "never say never" guy, either.

However, I'm not sure I'd do it in a pickup truck, particularly if you are going to drive in the rain. One false move and you would be pointing back the way you came from.

MHO -

K

[78BO]

Originally Posted by 3r!c84

ive got a question.whats the difference between a spool and a posi?

I'm not a wiss at them but from what I've read and used there are sever types of posi's.

Spools are full time on messing around positraction meant for rear wheels. Both wheels always spin the same. They are meant for straight line raceing, they eat tires for lunch on the street.

Then you have a selectable lockers like OX, ARB and such. These can be switched on an off. More so meant for offroad use.

And you have ratchet type lockers that are full time lockers unless you are turning and one wheel is spinning faster then the other. At that point the locker will open (or ratchet). This keeps you from wearing down you tires and putting excessive wear on the axles. But thay can be noisy. I owned a lockrite and it didn't last 6 months in my jeep. I ended up with a detroit.

And last is the limited slip. It only gives positraction once your drive side starts to slip. These have clutches in them and they required a special additive that you put in the gear lube. They have a higher chance of wearing out faster if you have a lot of power. But will still last a good bit.

Now if I'm wrong on any of this please feel free to let me know. I'm always up for schoolin.

[78BO]

Originally Posted by Keith Seymore

BTW - is this your daily driver?

I have a spool in my Chevelle, which sees limited street use, so you know I'm not a "never say never" guy, either.

However, I'm not sure I'd do it in a pickup truck, particularly if you are going to drive in the rain. One false move and you would be pointing back the way you came from.

MHO -

K

It's not my DD, but I do and will be driving it on the weekends. Hell, if I could afford the gas I'd drive it all the time. I was just toying with the idea of having it in until I could afford the rearend I want, maybe a year or so.

[LONGHAIR]

I am of the "Not on the street" crowd. The lack of differential action makes for some difficult driving at low speed. Sharp turns and parking are especially tough, the tires slide and squeel or attempt to "push" the vehicle straight instead of turning. (Not to mention that it is nearly un-drivable in the rain and forget snow totally)

swb85 is right about the axles.....I don't think you can even buy a "true" spool that is built for C-clips anyway. I wouldn't even bother with a "mini"....A spool is a thing where "if you need one, go all the way"

[78BO]

Originally Posted by LONGHAIR

I am of the "Not on the street" crowd. The lack of differential action makes for some difficult driving at low speed. Sharp turns and parking are especially tough, the tires slide and squeel or attempt to "push" the vehicle straight instead of turning. (Not to mention that it is nearly un-drivable in the rain and forget snow totally)

swb85 is right about the axles.....I don't think you can even buy a "true" spool that is built for C-clips anyway. I wouldn't even bother with a "mini"....A spool is a thing where "if you need one, go all the way"

I didn't know about the axle breaking part. Never knew it put THAT much pressure on them. With that and what I DO know about them I guess that's not a option.

So what year model truck axles will fit under my 78? Is there a certain year model that I should look for?