• Mustang Forums
  • 1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech

Mustang Differential

  • Thread starter Thread starter jrtcarter
  • Start date Start date Feb 17, 2004
J

jrtcarter

New Member
Feb 17, 2004
18
0
0
Feb 17, 2004
#1
  • Feb 17, 2004
  • #1
I bought an '88 LX coupe and noticed that when taking off hard in 1st only one tire pulls causing it to go up in smoke. So I started off in second and both back tires spun. Could someone please tell me why only one pulls in 1st and both pull in 2nd and what type differential do I need to fix this. Any info is very much appreciated.
 

NKau

Founding Member
Dec 15, 2001
1,346
0
37
45
Jefferson, WI
Feb 17, 2004
#2
  • Feb 17, 2004
  • #2
The clutches in your posi are worn out, resulting in the afformentioned problem. Rebuild kits only run about $50; shouldn't cost too much to have done at a reputable place. If you don't have gears, now would be a good time to consider having some installed.
 

what_stanger?

I am the mailman!!
Founding Member
Feb 7, 2002
1,697
0
36
42
Northern Illinois
www10.brinkster.com
Feb 17, 2004
#3
  • Feb 17, 2004
  • #3
the reason it may only be spinning one tire in first, is because of a gradual increase in power, as opposed to more than likely you're "dumping" into second (quick release on clutch) causing more shock and who knows, i know it usually helped me get 'posi' as we call it

but soon 2nd gear won't be 'posi' and it'll be peg legging too...

its an easy fix, you need to order a traction lok rebuild kit (fords term) costs about 50 bucks, pretty easy to do if you're mechanically inclined at all.

i ordered mine from D&D for 46 bucks i think, and got shims, spline plates (steels), clutches, and then friction modifier, and a new pinion pin bolt thingy too.....pre- lock-tited!!!!

yeah, the stock differential was meant to make both tires spin like you want, except its designed to slip turning and such (without spin)-- yours is just worn out.
get that puppy rebuild, and crank some donuts (its easy to rebuild i and many other stangnet guys have done it)

p.s., make sure to shim it properly! don't wanna drop a C clip do ya?
 
J

jrtcarter

New Member
Feb 17, 2004
18
0
0
Feb 17, 2004
#4
  • Feb 17, 2004
  • #4
Thanks for the info guys. That is actually good news, because I was worried that it was going to cost much more than that.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

J
2004 Mustang 3.8L V6 vibrations above 65 MPH and differential leaks
  • joeybuddy96
  • Mar 16, 2026
  • SN95 V6 Mustang Tech
Replies
16
Views
622
SN95 V6 Mustang Tech Jul 14, 2026
joeybuddy96
J
S
Engine Stalls when downshifting/coasting
  • Scott_S
  • Nov 5, 2025
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech
Replies
11
Views
755
Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech Nov 6, 2025
Mustang5L5
S
  • Locked
Drivetrain Adjustable clutch cable questions
  • Scott_S
  • Oct 31, 2025
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech
Replies
6
Views
440
Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech Oct 31, 2025
Noobz347
M
Engine Unexplainable Exhaust Pop and Gurgle
  • Mrnissen122
  • Feb 14, 2026
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech
Replies
12
Views
599
Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech Feb 18, 2026
Noobz347
Engine Information that is Needed When You Post a "Car is not Running" or "Car is Running Poorly" Thread
  • AeroCoupe
  • Apr 28, 2025
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech
  • 2
Replies
29
Views
1K
Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech May 4, 2025
Bullitt347
Share:
Bluesky Email Share Link
  • Mustang Forums
  • 1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech
Menu
Log in

Register

  • Forums
  • What's new
  • Media
  • Resources
  • Contact
  • Sponsor
X

Privacy & Transparency

We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:

  • Personalized ads and content
  • Content measurement and audience insights

Do you accept cookies and these technologies?

X

Privacy & Transparency

We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:

  • Personalized ads and content
  • Content measurement and audience insights

Do you accept cookies and these technologies?