What is an "open case"?

coldduck22

New Member
Joined
May 22, 2008
Location
Elizabethtown NC
Forgive the newb question but what classifies as an open case? One that doesn't have a locker?

I did an 8.8 swap on my xj a few months ago. The axle came from underaneath a 2wd Explorer sport, '96 i think. I know that it's a 31 spline but i don't think it has any type factory trackloc etc. because either tire looses traction at the drop of a hat when wheeling.

I've since had it re-geared and now i'm ready to put a locker in it. I'm looking at a powertrax no-slip. But it says that it will only work in an open case with a 3/4" cross shaft. So ultimately my question is, will this locker work in my axle?
 
A open carrier is a carrier that is just running spyder gears, no limited slip or locker. As long as yours dosnt have a factory limited slip it will work. If you dont have the open carrier you can usually get them for about $40 -50.
 
nope not a rare thing at all. It was just an option. Both 8.8's I have were open as were all the one's on friends Jeeps. I think I have only seen one that came with the limited slip.
 
Pull the diff cover and take a look. If you see springs and stuff it's probably a limited slip. If you just see four gears (spyder gears) then it's probably open. Check http://www.therangerstation.com/ , lots of good 8.8 info or use Google. There is probably a number stamped on the axle tube or housing that you can decipher to tell what carrier you have. 8.8 open carriers are notorious for exploding with larger tires and horsepower, Detroit Locker or full spool is the fix.
 
Jack up the back so both rear tires are off the ground. Spin the wheels, if they go the same way...LSD, if they spin opposite ways...open
 
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