Hi,
I have a 96 Grand Cherokee 4.0 with a open dana 35 that I use for a daily driver that I might take off road a few time a year just to go hunting....
I was looking for better traction for the winter months,,, and I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice...
I was looking at the powertrax and the Detroit Truetrac and didn't which one would be best for me........
Thanks.....

 

I didn't have good luck with either in an old el camino I had, but this has been 15 yrs ago.

 

Powertrax is a smoother locker. Trutrac clicks when you turn, or cause different wheel speeds on the same axle. it is normal, but can be mistaken for other issues....

and for the occasional need, powertrax is also less expensive, and will react more like an LSD then a locked diff.

 

i had a powertrax on my 89 cherokee and it was sweet. doesnt make a lot of noise on the street unless you want it to and handled everything i could throw at it..

 

Powertrax is a ratcheting or tooth locker. truetrac is not a "locker" and does not click at all. it is a limited slip.

For street manners, the truetrac is your best bet and if your only doing occasional 4x4, would be my choice. it is a bit more expensive but is a full case. the powertrax clicks and ratchets when you turn and is a full time locked application

 

i would run the truetrac for street manners and tire wear.

i wouldnt put either in a d35 with over a 31'' tire though....and thats pushing it. i just feel that d35's are a ticking time bomb when offroad. even more so when locked.

 

First, a dana 35 is a very weak axle to be trying to lock up. I would suggest that the OP look at picking up a Chyrsler 8.25 Cherokee axle and putting a locker in it instead.

Secound, the Detroit TruTrac is a gear driven torque biasing differential, it has no clutch discs like a LSD.

Third, the Detroit TruTrac is full differential and replaces the carrier, so gears will need to be set up. The Powertrax is a lunch box locker and is easier to install but weaker than the TruTrac.