Newbie question about 3.73 locking rear axle on F250 4x2

[Nighduckman]

In response to a previous post, some helpful people on the forum asked if my 2wd 2019 F250 came with an electronic locking 3.73, rear axle. It does. But being very new to this, am I right that this will mainly help if I am on some rougher road conditions where I realize I risk getting stuck? I realize it is nowhere near as good as 4x4 but I assume it is good to have in a RWD only setup? Anyone with a RWD have any experience using it?

Also, the dealer who sold me the truck, an old 2WD pickup guy, told me to turn off traction control when engaging the locking rear axle and to stay at lower speeds with the axle locked until I am on better terrain. Dues this sound right? Obviously, newbie questions but I am trying to learn. Thanks in advance!

[camperdave]

Well, I can tell you from some experience if you're on a slick slightly cambered road and one rear wheel is spinning, all locking the rear diff will do is spin both wheels and put you in a ditch! :E

unless they have electronic overrides for stability control stuff nowadays.

[WNYBob]

I have it on my 2011 Silverado 1500 LS 4x2 and don't even notice it. I leave it on all the time. I have that turns it off,but don't use it.

[4x4ord]

Just to play I often engage my electronic locking diff after backing out of my garage in the snow if the truck slips trying to pull forward. I don't think it has ever offered enough additional traction to get me going. I need to engage the 4wd. I guess when one rear tire is on better ground than the other it can potentially make the difference but don't expect much.

[time2roll]

I would also recommend not for any pavement wet or dry unless you experience loss of traction.

[theoldwizard1]

read your owners manual, page 221

The electronic locking differential can provide additional traction should your vehicle become stuck. You can activate the differential electronically and shift it on the fly within the differential operating speed range. The differential is for use in ice, snow, mud, rocks, sand, or any off-road condition where you need maximum traction. It is not for use on dry pavement.

• In 4x2 or 4x4 High modes (any gear on 2WD), the electronic locking differential will automatically disengage at speeds above 25 mph (41 km/h) and will automatically reengage at speeds below 20 mph (32 km/h).

• The AdvanceTrac system has the ability to take over control of the electronic locking differential and disable it during driving maneuvers when necessary.