I would like to start a discussion thread regarding Limited Slip and Locker options for the Dana 30 METRIC front end, which seems to be the engineering choice by Chrysler for the new JK's.

Does anyone know when the D30 Metric differential was put into the Wrangler?

Does anyone know of Limited Slip Differential (LSD) options available for the D30 Metric front diff?

Here is a page I found that lists most of the diffs in use...

http://www.differentials.com/pdfs/43.pdf

-JK09

 

I recently contacted Detroit-Eaton, via email, regarding LSD products for the 07, 08, 09 FRONT Dana 30 “metric” differential. I have a 3.73:1 ratio front Dana 30, in a 09 Wrangler, X, Unlimited, 4x4.
The Rep was quite helpful and very knowledgeable, and refreshingly patient while answering my questions.
In email conversation with the Tech Rep from Eaton (Detroit), I learned the following things about Detroit-Eaton’s FRONT LSD products.

My initial query elcited this answer:

Thank you for the interest in Eaton differentials. We do offer the
Truetrac for Dana 30 front axles. However, the part number depends on
the gear ratio you are using.
The part number would be (Non-Rubicon applications) 912A585.
Just remember, no synthetic oils or additives.
The Tech Rep and I then exchanged several emails, he answering my questions. I trimmed the fat and gristle out of the emails between us and posted the pertinent passages below:
Q: No synthetics??? Why not? I would think that synthetic oil would protect the gear pockets? Not even Amsoil or Royal Purple?
A: No synthetics of any kind. It can reduce the torque biasing capabilities within the Truetrac. This will make it less effective.
Q: How often will regular gear oil need to be changed in the housing?
A: Gear oil change depends on usage. If hardcore use every 10 to 15k, other than that, 35k. Only applies when front axle is locked in.
Barney Gwozdz
Sales Coordinator / Technical Specialist
Eaton Corporation
Phone# (248)226-6234
Fax# (248)226-6740


Also of great help was Nate over at Sadler PowerTrain. They ascertained for me this:

Thank you for your inquiry
I just spoke with an Eaton Tech and they are familiar with the different holes sizes on the dana 30 and dana 44, for the Rubicon.
What size are your bolts you have now ? , are they 3/8” or 7/16” or another size ?
If they are smaller than the holes size on the TrueTrac , and they have told me this before, that it is perfectly fine to use the TrueTrac with the slightly larger hole with the smaller bolts; use thread locker, and make sure to torque them to specs . I know it probably seems a bit strange but that is what they recommend , if your bolt size is larger then you will need to drill the holes out to size
Either way the unit will work.
I have the brand new Detroit truetrac in stock for the dana 30 3.73 and numerically higher ratio
They are $ 359 , which should be the best price anywhere on a new unit.
Part # 912A585
Please let me know if I can help. I have them in stock at my location here ready to go
Thank you very much and have a great day

Nathan J.Sadler
Purchasing Manager
Sadler Power Train Inc.
2155 Jacolyn drive sw
cedar rapids ia 52404
1.800.383.8238
www.sadlerpowertrain.com

 

Yeah, the Aussie, Powertrax stuff and I THINK the standard carrier stuff like the Dana Powerlock and Detroit Locker. I may be wrong there, but seems I remember somebody said that stuff would fit, too. Maybe David from Northridge will chime in. He'll know.

 

Ya dude, I don't know about the metric stuff. But, that is the exact same part number for the truetrack I tossed in up front with absolutely no problem in an '07 X. Fit like a glove and works perfectly. The Truetrack comes with multi-size ring gear holes already pre-drilled, I believe 1/2" and 7/16" very handy.
And that is a DAMN good price you were quoted.
Oh, and I just completed a 1500 mile trip with some offroading fun at my destination, everything running smoothly and the truetrack (and rear ECTED) really helped me out of a bind I got myself in!