Wow thanks for the info. So in talking about the front LSD/lockers for a 2500 what would I be looking for? How drastically would it limit my turning also? And would the turning be limited only when 4wd is engaged or all the time?
No clutch or friction LSD...........Only the gear driven True-Trac, and then see my caveat above.
Keep side to side turning to a minimum, and when using, the straighter your wheels are, the better.
Your steering would be limited when using the LOCKER, not regular 4x4....err........I mean..... 4x3 (open front diff). But remember when using just the 4x4 function, and no locker, you can still feel some binding at full-lock! The front locker will magnify that feel, along with greater strain on the components. True for straight axles also.
Watch some You-Tube vidios from Austrailia, where they use lockers in their vehicles.....both straight axels and IFS rigs. They seem to keep their turning radius while engaged to around 1/3. Something also, their rigs look to be at or above GVW.
the rule of thumb is that a front locker only adds about 15% greater traction. But when you need that 15%, you really need it. Thus for the mass majority of us, we will not need it (85%)
If you watch You-tube videos, you will notice something that SEASONED drivers do. That is, they apply a single band of colored tape at the 12 o'clock position on their steering wheels. This is a visual aid for ensuring your front wheels are straight, and not turned. This minimizes drag, when recoveries are being done, and helps the recovery process. It also is a reminder of how much steering input you have applied.
Hope this helps you, and that other readers will chime in on their experiences, or concerns. Finding actual users in GM trucks are very scarce, probably because of the IFS issue, and general hesitation to spend the $$$$ needed to answer the question in it's entirety.
If someone has taken the plunge, please by all means let the forum know your experiences, and what parts it took to get there.
