open vs limited slip diferentials.

By the exposed end-view of the ring-side helical worm-gears, and the adjacent gray bearing cap for the matching worm-gear set, we can conclude that JIMNLIN likely has the same helical gear set-up in his 2500 Ram. This is the highly touted, and bulletproof Torsen type differential that the military AM General HMMWV uses, so it was interesting to hear that it commonly slips with one wheel on ice. Now true, a Torsen type diff is essentially and open diff that relies on substancial gear drag to transfer torque to the wheel with traction; but in contrast, low friction Spider gears found in ordinary open diffs very easily allow one wheel to slip.

Yeah the Trac-rite was very controversial when introduced in the new '03 Dodge HD trucks. Lots of cussin and discussin threads on the subject on Dodge/Cummins forums at that time.

This from STAR Group;

The following is a S. T. A. R. Center Case Report:
Report created Jan 6 2004
Updated Jan 13 2004
STAR Group: Trans Core
Created by: G. Knapp
Customer says his trac-rite rear diff is not working?

GCK1: 01/06/2004

Recommendation/Solution

Review AAM Trac-rite diff characteristics. Rear diff is working or truck wouldn't move. It will overrun like standard diff if operating on extreme differernces in surfaces. (Ice under one rear tire with other tire on dry pavement. ) No further action.

:GCKI:01/06/2004

The 2003 heavey-duty Ram uses and American Axle helical differential or Trac-Rite. The Trac_Rite differential is different then Trac-Lok in that it uses helical gears (Trac-Lok uses clutches) to transfer power to the opposite wheel when slippage occurs. The transfer of power from wheel to wheel is torque sensitive and must have both wheels spinning (not stationary) to function. It is possible for the Trac-Rite differential to not send power to a wheel if is not spinning. Example: Accelerating from as stop and one wheel is on ice and the other on dry pavement. If accelerating to fast, the wheel on the ice may spin and never send power to the wheel on the pavement side. A slower start may be necessary to start the vehicles momentum. "
............................................................

The '01 Dodge/Cummins I had with the Dana 70 and I believe it was the Trac-Lok ??? worked great....just like the G80 GM while sitting still in the above conditions.