Since I'm no expert at this, I took some pix of my diff after I took the covers off to change the fluids. Probably a good thing. They smelled worse than burnt popcorn and two bolts in the rear axle where only finger tight!!

I know I have D30 in front and D35 in rear with a 242 TC. I don't see a vacuum disconnect on the front axle like some folks talk about. And from my limited expertise' these don't look like open diff's.

Also, if there LS, what is the alternative to "Friction Modifier Additive"?? And do I need it??

 

That looks like an open diff to me.

 

The vac disco front axle was used with the NP231 t-case., so you NP242 would not have one. Those are open diffs. If they were limited slip axles, the friction modifier is required.

Also, which 2 rear bolts are talking about that were loose?

 

That is an open diff.

 

they look open to me

 

HMMM OK there open.

What can I do to help off roading and still be good for a daily driver???

 

Bottom left and one half way up on the right on the diff cover.

 

On the diff cover, or the carrier caps?

 

On the diff cover. Every thing inside the diff seems to be tight.

 

HAHA i say the same thing.....everyone always looks at me like im nuts......dirty gear oild smells like burnt popcorn!!

 

It smells bad out of the bottle. The worst is Havoline. Even their motor oil smells bad.

You don't need a friction modifier for an open differential. You only need it if you have a carrier with friction clutches in it.

 

If you want to add to make it a good off roader while still a daily driver. You could add a Aussie Locker to either the rear or the front.

They ratchet when turning so it won't mess up your tires or Diff.

Another good way to tell if your Diff is open with out pulling the cover is to jack up the axle of the ground and turn the tire. If the other tires turns the opposite direction you are open.

 

I have a 95 Cherokee that is 100% stock with a 8.25 rear end. I still want a good locker but I have never installed gears or a locker before. With out pulling the cover is there anyway I can tell what my spline count is? Would a Aussie Locker be a good choice? How hard is it to install? My plans with my XJ is to lift it about 4.5 inches with 31/33's and use it as a 'fun' rig, 85% offroad, but driving to the trails. Or would it be better to lock up the front? I know there is a lot of questions in here but I also know there are people in here that have done it all. Thanks in advance.

 

It's a 27 spline.