Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
had installed it wrong...see below)

The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that I've
spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway drivability.

Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read that
they will, but I'm still worried.

I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
driving is really a little scary.

I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?

Any advice.

Masnor

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Hi Marc,
Learn to never accelerate while moving around a turn. Your
Powertrax is design similar to the Detroit Locker used by the muscle
cars of the sixties that would pick the front end up and put it down in
on coming traffic. The limited slip may have been a better choice for
you: http://----------.com/differential.htm
God Bless America, ßill O|||||||O
mailto:-------------------- http://www.----------.com/

Marc Masnor wrote:
>
> I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway drivability.
>
> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>
> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
> Any advice.
>
> Masnor

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Hi Marc,
Learn to never accelerate while moving around a turn. Your
Powertrax is design similar to the Detroit Locker used by the muscle
cars of the sixties that would pick the front end up and put it down in
on coming traffic. The limited slip may have been a better choice for
you: http://----------.com/differential.htm
God Bless America, ßill O|||||||O
mailto:-------------------- http://www.----------.com/

Marc Masnor wrote:
>
> I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway drivability.
>
> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>
> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
> Any advice.
>
> Masnor

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Hi Marc,
Learn to never accelerate while moving around a turn. Your
Powertrax is design similar to the Detroit Locker used by the muscle
cars of the sixties that would pick the front end up and put it down in
on coming traffic. The limited slip may have been a better choice for
you: http://----------.com/differential.htm
God Bless America, ßill O|||||||O
mailto:-------------------- http://www.----------.com/

Marc Masnor wrote:
>
> I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway drivability.
>
> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>
> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
> Any advice.
>
> Masnor

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Just keep the rear tire pressure even... neither higher nor lower pressure
really helps in a meaningful way. The more you drive it, the less its
effects are noticeable. Understand that it unlocks much easier going around
corners if you keep the power off through a corner. If you power through a
corner it will stay locked up and you'll experience tire chirp.

Just drive and you'll soon discover through a short learning process what
minimizes the effects and what exaggerates the effects of a rear locker. It
does get better, I have had a rear auto locker (Detroit Locker) in my daily
driver TJ for 3-4 years now and it reminds me of its presence just enough to
make me grin once in a while. :)

Jerry

--
--
Jerry Bransford
PP-ASEL N6TAY
See the Geezer Jeep at
http://members.cox.net/jerrypb/
"Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
>I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
> I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
> drivability.
>
> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
> that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>
> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
> Any advice.
>
> Masnor
>
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Just keep the rear tire pressure even... neither higher nor lower pressure
really helps in a meaningful way. The more you drive it, the less its
effects are noticeable. Understand that it unlocks much easier going around
corners if you keep the power off through a corner. If you power through a
corner it will stay locked up and you'll experience tire chirp.

Just drive and you'll soon discover through a short learning process what
minimizes the effects and what exaggerates the effects of a rear locker. It
does get better, I have had a rear auto locker (Detroit Locker) in my daily
driver TJ for 3-4 years now and it reminds me of its presence just enough to
make me grin once in a while. :)

Jerry

--
--
Jerry Bransford
PP-ASEL N6TAY
See the Geezer Jeep at
http://members.cox.net/jerrypb/
"Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
>I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
> I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
> drivability.
>
> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
> that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>
> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
> Any advice.
>
> Masnor
>
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Just keep the rear tire pressure even... neither higher nor lower pressure
really helps in a meaningful way. The more you drive it, the less its
effects are noticeable. Understand that it unlocks much easier going around
corners if you keep the power off through a corner. If you power through a
corner it will stay locked up and you'll experience tire chirp.

Just drive and you'll soon discover through a short learning process what
minimizes the effects and what exaggerates the effects of a rear locker. It
does get better, I have had a rear auto locker (Detroit Locker) in my daily
driver TJ for 3-4 years now and it reminds me of its presence just enough to
make me grin once in a while. :)

Jerry

--
--
Jerry Bransford
PP-ASEL N6TAY
See the Geezer Jeep at
http://members.cox.net/jerrypb/
"Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
>I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
> I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
> drivability.
>
> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
> that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>
> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
> Any advice.
>
> Masnor
>
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Sounds pretty normal to me... not sure what you had encountered after
two years of research. Like Bill mentioned, some type of limited slip
(or air locker) may have been better for your application. IMO, any
type of full locker will significantly reduce highway drivability. But
it's kind of like tire size I guess... some people say 33's with stock
gears are just fine, others find that combo to not be tolerable on the
highway.

Dave
http://mysite.verizon.net/res0p2es/david/index.htm

On Mon, 30 Aug 2004 23:04:39 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
wrote:

>I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
>installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
>had installed it wrong...see below)
>
>The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
>turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
>while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
>shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
>unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that I've
>spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway drivability.
>
>Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read that
>they will, but I'm still worried.
>
>I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
>and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
>I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
>driving is really a little scary.
>
>I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
>pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
>Any advice.
>
>Masnor
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Sounds pretty normal to me... not sure what you had encountered after
two years of research. Like Bill mentioned, some type of limited slip
(or air locker) may have been better for your application. IMO, any
type of full locker will significantly reduce highway drivability. But
it's kind of like tire size I guess... some people say 33's with stock
gears are just fine, others find that combo to not be tolerable on the
highway.

Dave
http://mysite.verizon.net/res0p2es/david/index.htm

On Mon, 30 Aug 2004 23:04:39 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
wrote:

>I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
>installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
>had installed it wrong...see below)
>
>The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
>turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
>while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
>shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
>unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that I've
>spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway drivability.
>
>Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read that
>they will, but I'm still worried.
>
>I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
>and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
>I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
>driving is really a little scary.
>
>I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
>pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
>Any advice.
>
>Masnor
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Sounds pretty normal to me... not sure what you had encountered after
two years of research. Like Bill mentioned, some type of limited slip
(or air locker) may have been better for your application. IMO, any
type of full locker will significantly reduce highway drivability. But
it's kind of like tire size I guess... some people say 33's with stock
gears are just fine, others find that combo to not be tolerable on the
highway.

Dave
http://mysite.verizon.net/res0p2es/david/index.htm

On Mon, 30 Aug 2004 23:04:39 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
wrote:

>I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had it
>installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
>had installed it wrong...see below)
>
>The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
>turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
>while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
>shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
>unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that I've
>spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway drivability.
>
>Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read that
>they will, but I'm still worried.
>
>I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
>and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
>I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
>driving is really a little scary.
>
>I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
>pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>
>Any advice.
>
>Masnor
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

"Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
> I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had
it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
drivability.
>

You will become accustomed to these traits.

Do this, go out on a trail that is a real bitch, one that formerly had you
spinning tires on opposite corners. Notice how easily you negotiate the
obsticle now. The traits you describe will be a reasonable trade-off, I
assure you.




> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>

I have to disagree here. It isn't the highway driving that causes you
concerns, its the street driving. You will get used to it very quickly. I
had NEVER even heard of a locker before I bought my CJ, and it came with two
of them already installed. It was a bit un-nerving at first to have my Jeep
change lanes on its own, and the time the people in the convertable in the
next lane ducked when the locker unlocked still makes me chuckle. I am very
comfortable in any car that is on the road, and mastering the locker
equipped CJ5 took just a few hours.



> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>

Use the gas pedal with less gusto. Roll the gas on and off instead of
mashing at the pedal. The driving technique is more like a chauffer than a
stock-car pilot.

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

"Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
> I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had
it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
drivability.
>

You will become accustomed to these traits.

Do this, go out on a trail that is a real bitch, one that formerly had you
spinning tires on opposite corners. Notice how easily you negotiate the
obsticle now. The traits you describe will be a reasonable trade-off, I
assure you.




> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>

I have to disagree here. It isn't the highway driving that causes you
concerns, its the street driving. You will get used to it very quickly. I
had NEVER even heard of a locker before I bought my CJ, and it came with two
of them already installed. It was a bit un-nerving at first to have my Jeep
change lanes on its own, and the time the people in the convertable in the
next lane ducked when the locker unlocked still makes me chuckle. I am very
comfortable in any car that is on the road, and mastering the locker
equipped CJ5 took just a few hours.



> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>

Use the gas pedal with less gusto. Roll the gas on and off instead of
mashing at the pedal. The driving technique is more like a chauffer than a
stock-car pilot.

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

"Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
> I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had
it
> installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like I
> had installed it wrong...see below)
>
> The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
I've
> spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
drivability.
>

You will become accustomed to these traits.

Do this, go out on a trail that is a real bitch, one that formerly had you
spinning tires on opposite corners. Notice how easily you negotiate the
obsticle now. The traits you describe will be a reasonable trade-off, I
assure you.




> Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
that
> they will, but I'm still worried.
>
> I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and dirt
> and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving time.
> I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> driving is really a little scary.
>

I have to disagree here. It isn't the highway driving that causes you
concerns, its the street driving. You will get used to it very quickly. I
had NEVER even heard of a locker before I bought my CJ, and it came with two
of them already installed. It was a bit un-nerving at first to have my Jeep
change lanes on its own, and the time the people in the convertable in the
next lane ducked when the locker unlocked still makes me chuckle. I am very
comfortable in any car that is on the road, and mastering the locker
equipped CJ5 took just a few hours.



> I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
>

Use the gas pedal with less gusto. Roll the gas on and off instead of
mashing at the pedal. The driving technique is more like a chauffer than a
stock-car pilot.

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

You not only want to keep the rear tire pressure at the same psi but also
the same tread depth. If you blow a rear tire you want to make sure to take
one off the front (that closest matches wear, tread depth) and put the spare
on the front.
Nick

"CRWLR" <beerman@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:10j9ci09qioutad@corp.supernews.com...
>
> "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
> news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
> > I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had
> it
> > installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like
I
> > had installed it wrong...see below)
> >
> > The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> > turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> > while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> > shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> > unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
> I've
> > spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
> drivability.
> >
>
> You will become accustomed to these traits.
>
> Do this, go out on a trail that is a real bitch, one that formerly had you
> spinning tires on opposite corners. Notice how easily you negotiate the
> obsticle now. The traits you describe will be a reasonable trade-off, I
> assure you.
>
>
>
>
> > Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
> that
> > they will, but I'm still worried.
> >
> > I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and
dirt
> > and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving
time.
> > I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> > driving is really a little scary.
> >
>
> I have to disagree here. It isn't the highway driving that causes you
> concerns, its the street driving. You will get used to it very quickly. I
> had NEVER even heard of a locker before I bought my CJ, and it came with
two
> of them already installed. It was a bit un-nerving at first to have my
Jeep
> change lanes on its own, and the time the people in the convertable in the
> next lane ducked when the locker unlocked still makes me chuckle. I am
very
> comfortable in any car that is on the road, and mastering the locker
> equipped CJ5 took just a few hours.
>
>
>
> > I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> > pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
> >
>
> Use the gas pedal with less gusto. Roll the gas on and off instead of
> mashing at the pedal. The driving technique is more like a chauffer than a
> stock-car pilot.
>
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

You not only want to keep the rear tire pressure at the same psi but also
the same tread depth. If you blow a rear tire you want to make sure to take
one off the front (that closest matches wear, tread depth) and put the spare
on the front.
Nick

"CRWLR" <beerman@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:10j9ci09qioutad@corp.supernews.com...
>
> "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
> news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
> > I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had
> it
> > installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like
I
> > had installed it wrong...see below)
> >
> > The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> > turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> > while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> > shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> > unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
> I've
> > spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
> drivability.
> >
>
> You will become accustomed to these traits.
>
> Do this, go out on a trail that is a real bitch, one that formerly had you
> spinning tires on opposite corners. Notice how easily you negotiate the
> obsticle now. The traits you describe will be a reasonable trade-off, I
> assure you.
>
>
>
>
> > Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
> that
> > they will, but I'm still worried.
> >
> > I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and
dirt
> > and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving
time.
> > I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> > driving is really a little scary.
> >
>
> I have to disagree here. It isn't the highway driving that causes you
> concerns, its the street driving. You will get used to it very quickly. I
> had NEVER even heard of a locker before I bought my CJ, and it came with
two
> of them already installed. It was a bit un-nerving at first to have my
Jeep
> change lanes on its own, and the time the people in the convertable in the
> next lane ducked when the locker unlocked still makes me chuckle. I am
very
> comfortable in any car that is on the road, and mastering the locker
> equipped CJ5 took just a few hours.
>
>
>
> > I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> > pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
> >
>
> Use the gas pedal with less gusto. Roll the gas on and off instead of
> mashing at the pedal. The driving technique is more like a chauffer than a
> stock-car pilot.
>
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

You not only want to keep the rear tire pressure at the same psi but also
the same tread depth. If you blow a rear tire you want to make sure to take
one off the front (that closest matches wear, tread depth) and put the spare
on the front.
Nick

"CRWLR" <beerman@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:10j9ci09qioutad@corp.supernews.com...
>
> "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net> wrote in message
> news:jNSYc.9397$gl.3434@okepread07...
> > I had researched the Powertrax for about two years. Finally today I had
> it
> > installed. (yeah, I should have done it myself) (although I'd feel like
I
> > had installed it wrong...see below)
> >
> > The clicking is OK. So is the clunking. However, the tire chirp while
> > turning ANY street corner, tire spin while starting out from any corner
> > while turning, the shifting torque steer in unexpected directions, the
> > shifting rearend when slowing and speeding up at any speed, also in
> > unexpected and unpredictable directions all have me VERY concerned that
> I've
> > spend $400 for something that significantly reduces the highway
> drivability.
> >
>
> You will become accustomed to these traits.
>
> Do this, go out on a trail that is a real bitch, one that formerly had you
> spinning tires on opposite corners. Notice how easily you negotiate the
> obsticle now. The traits you describe will be a reasonable trade-off, I
> assure you.
>
>
>
>
> > Someone please tell me that these symptons will fade. A lot! I've read
> that
> > they will, but I'm still worried.
> >
> > I use the TJ for my daily driver and for hunting in muddy, boggy, and
dirt
> > and grass hill areas. Also, I get some snow, ice, and slush driving
time.
> > I haven't had an opportunity to get in the woods yet, but the highway
> > driving is really a little scary.
> >
>
> I have to disagree here. It isn't the highway driving that causes you
> concerns, its the street driving. You will get used to it very quickly. I
> had NEVER even heard of a locker before I bought my CJ, and it came with
two
> of them already installed. It was a bit un-nerving at first to have my
Jeep
> change lanes on its own, and the time the people in the convertable in the
> next lane ducked when the locker unlocked still makes me chuckle. I am
very
> comfortable in any car that is on the road, and mastering the locker
> equipped CJ5 took just a few hours.
>
>
>
> > I read that uniform tire pressure is very important. Is uniform higher
> > pressure or lower more helpful with reducing torque steer?
> >
>
> Use the gas pedal with less gusto. Roll the gas on and off instead of
> mashing at the pedal. The driving technique is more like a chauffer than a
> stock-car pilot.
>
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was apparently
some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle highway
cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work the
pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going to
happen now...(below)

When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and saved
it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia (by
eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I got
it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.

--
Marc.L.Masnor@usace.army.mil

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was apparently
some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle highway
cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work the
pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going to
happen now...(below)

When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and saved
it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia (by
eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I got
it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.

--
Marc.L.Masnor@usace.army.mil

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was apparently
some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle highway
cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work the
pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going to
happen now...(below)

When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and saved
it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia (by
eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I got
it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.

--
Marc.L.Masnor@usace.army.mil

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Marc, hope you didn't consider my response a criticism? If so, I
apologize. I sure didn't intend it that way.

Dave

On Wed, 1 Sep 2004 16:55:57 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
wrote:

>Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
>enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
>tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
>matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was apparently
>some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
>drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
>inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle highway
>cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work the
>pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going to
>happen now...(below)
>
>When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
>changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and saved
>it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia (by
>eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
>obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I got
>it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Marc, hope you didn't consider my response a criticism? If so, I
apologize. I sure didn't intend it that way.

Dave

On Wed, 1 Sep 2004 16:55:57 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
wrote:

>Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
>enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
>tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
>matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was apparently
>some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
>drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
>inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle highway
>cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work the
>pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going to
>happen now...(below)
>
>When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
>changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and saved
>it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia (by
>eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
>obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I got
>it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Marc, hope you didn't consider my response a criticism? If so, I
apologize. I sure didn't intend it that way.

Dave

On Wed, 1 Sep 2004 16:55:57 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
wrote:

>Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
>enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
>tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
>matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was apparently
>some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
>drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
>inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle highway
>cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work the
>pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going to
>happen now...(below)
>
>When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
>changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and saved
>it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia (by
>eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
>obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I got
>it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Dave, No problem. I was grinning, but still feeling bad at the time for an
expensive "upgrade" that wasn't acting like I had thought it would on the
highway and I had had no chance to use it offroad.

The best thing to come out of this (so far) has been the broken part found
when the transmission fluid was drained. For the price of my original
extended insurance and the $59 deductable, I'll be getting a general
transmission overhaul. I heard today that the shop had ordered about $1,400
in parts, mostly seals. That should prolong the transmission for several
years. That makes the cost of the insurance basically a wash.

If they also find the cause of a slow coolant loss, then that will be like a
free repair. I had not thought MUCH about adding a quart or so when I
cheched fluids at oil change time. But after reading news group posts about
a cracked head causing a mysterious coolant loss, I though I'd have them
check that also. I called after they had started on the transmission, so
they'll have to get the transmission back in, then try to find the coolant
loss.

All the while I'm busting to get to the woods and try out the Powertrax. I
may not get my Wrangler back until Tuesday or Wednesday after Labor Day -
then a week or so before I can try it out.

--
Marc.L.Masnor@usace.army.mil


"David C. Moller" <dmoller@verizon.net> wrote in message
news:16bej0dvi0p7dcugqbte6n09akgnu32186@4ax.com...
> Marc, hope you didn't consider my response a criticism? If so, I
> apologize. I sure didn't intend it that way.
>
> Dave
>
> On Wed, 1 Sep 2004 16:55:57 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
> wrote:
>
>>Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
>>enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
>>tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
>>matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was
>>apparently
>>some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
>>drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
>>inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle
>>highway
>>cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work
>>the
>>pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going
>>to
>>happen now...(below)
>>
>>When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
>>changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and
>>saved
>>it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia
>>(by
>>eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
>>obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I
>>got
>>it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Dave, No problem. I was grinning, but still feeling bad at the time for an
expensive "upgrade" that wasn't acting like I had thought it would on the
highway and I had had no chance to use it offroad.

The best thing to come out of this (so far) has been the broken part found
when the transmission fluid was drained. For the price of my original
extended insurance and the $59 deductable, I'll be getting a general
transmission overhaul. I heard today that the shop had ordered about $1,400
in parts, mostly seals. That should prolong the transmission for several
years. That makes the cost of the insurance basically a wash.

If they also find the cause of a slow coolant loss, then that will be like a
free repair. I had not thought MUCH about adding a quart or so when I
cheched fluids at oil change time. But after reading news group posts about
a cracked head causing a mysterious coolant loss, I though I'd have them
check that also. I called after they had started on the transmission, so
they'll have to get the transmission back in, then try to find the coolant
loss.

All the while I'm busting to get to the woods and try out the Powertrax. I
may not get my Wrangler back until Tuesday or Wednesday after Labor Day -
then a week or so before I can try it out.

--
Marc.L.Masnor@usace.army.mil


"David C. Moller" <dmoller@verizon.net> wrote in message
news:16bej0dvi0p7dcugqbte6n09akgnu32186@4ax.com...
> Marc, hope you didn't consider my response a criticism? If so, I
> apologize. I sure didn't intend it that way.
>
> Dave
>
> On Wed, 1 Sep 2004 16:55:57 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
> wrote:
>
>>Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
>>enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
>>tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
>>matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was
>>apparently
>>some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
>>drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
>>inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle
>>highway
>>cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work
>>the
>>pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going
>>to
>>happen now...(below)
>>
>>When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
>>changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and
>>saved
>>it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia
>>(by
>>eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
>>obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I
>>got
>>it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.
>

Re: Just got a Powertrax rear diff, 2000 TJ... NEED ADVICE
 

Dave, No problem. I was grinning, but still feeling bad at the time for an
expensive "upgrade" that wasn't acting like I had thought it would on the
highway and I had had no chance to use it offroad.

The best thing to come out of this (so far) has been the broken part found
when the transmission fluid was drained. For the price of my original
extended insurance and the $59 deductable, I'll be getting a general
transmission overhaul. I heard today that the shop had ordered about $1,400
in parts, mostly seals. That should prolong the transmission for several
years. That makes the cost of the insurance basically a wash.

If they also find the cause of a slow coolant loss, then that will be like a
free repair. I had not thought MUCH about adding a quart or so when I
cheched fluids at oil change time. But after reading news group posts about
a cracked head causing a mysterious coolant loss, I though I'd have them
check that also. I called after they had started on the transmission, so
they'll have to get the transmission back in, then try to find the coolant
loss.

All the while I'm busting to get to the woods and try out the Powertrax. I
may not get my Wrangler back until Tuesday or Wednesday after Labor Day -
then a week or so before I can try it out.

--
Marc.L.Masnor@usace.army.mil


"David C. Moller" <dmoller@verizon.net> wrote in message
news:16bej0dvi0p7dcugqbte6n09akgnu32186@4ax.com...
> Marc, hope you didn't consider my response a criticism? If so, I
> apologize. I sure didn't intend it that way.
>
> Dave
>
> On Wed, 1 Sep 2004 16:55:57 -0500, "Marc Masnor" <Masnor@cox.net>
> wrote:
>
>>Thanks for all of the advice (and criticims - I wasn't feeling quite bad
>>enough, but you fixed that. thanks). I have only had time to adjust the
>>tire pressure - it was off a couple of pounds and getting them exactly
>>matched seemed to noticably help. Also, as suggested, there was
>>apparently
>>some breakin softening, even if only during the 45 highway miles I got to
>>drive. It initially felt like the rear end was jumping sideways about 6
>>inches, when only MILDLY letting off or on the gas when on a gentle
>>highway
>>cruve (at 60mph). And "mildly" was as gentle and I could possibly work
>>the
>>pedal. I was hopefull to get to the woods tomorrow, but that's not going
>>to
>>happen now...(below)
>>
>>When I had the powertrax put in, I also had the manual transmission fluid
>>changed. Fortunately, they noticed a metal part on the drain plug and
>>saved
>>it for me. It looks like a roller bearing or pin, about 1/8th inch dia
>>(by
>>eye) and about 1.5 inches long. One end is machined, the other was
>>obviously snapped off. I had about 13K miles left on the warranty, so I
>>got
>>it into the dealer the next day. They just started taking it apart today.
>