What is a G80, locker or posi?

[LongrangeLauber]

Really looking at building differentials here shortly and need to know what to buy. So what is a G80, is it a locker or is it a positraction unit?

 

I see both when I look it up under the RPO codes.

 

I like how it works, just not sure what it is, locker or posi? Dont want to purchase the wrong thing and be unhappy when I dump money into the differentials

 

Thanks

[LongrangeLauber]

Also, what do I need for the front? On randy's ring and pinion, it does not show any posi unit or locker for the front, unless that is just an open case

[RyanbabZ71]

Locker

 

 

Ryan

 

 

[2017HD]

For the trucks the G80 RPO code refers to an Eaton auto locking differential. I believe that there is a video explanation on the Eaton website http://www.eaton.in/EatonIN/ProductsServices/Automotive/LockingDifferentials/PCT_329342

 

Basically, the differential acts like a normal open diff until one side loses traction and spins 100 RPM faster than the other one, then it mechanically locks the axle until the shafts spin at the same speed again.

 

Ever since I started with 4x4s (99 Tahoe and 07 2500HD) I have had the G80 and have yet to get stuck - I love it in snow and ice - it augments the extra traction of the 4x4.

[MikeNH]

The front is open. Not sure if there are any options but if there were I'd s pass as independent suspension with an aluminum housing and a locker would just be asking for something to break in a spectacular way.

[LongrangeLauber]

The front is open. Not sure if there are any options but if there were I'd s pass as independent suspension with an aluminum housing and a locker would just be asking for something to break in a spectacular way.

 

So I could just reuse the stock front carrier and save some cash? Or is there anything in it that may need to be replaced? I saw a "loaded" and "unloaded" version of a yukon "open" front carrier.

 

I figured an open carrier is just that, theres nothing in it. But Ive also never really gotten into differentials. Only swapped whole housings

[scooby5121]

The front is open. Not sure if there are any options but if there were I'd s pass as independent suspension with an aluminum housing and a locker would just be asking for something to break in a spectacular way.

It would only be used in 4x4 mode so you know if your in deep snow or mud it will be free to spin for the traction.

At Highway speeds it is like ususal in straight aways, not functionable in turning sharp at high speeds.. I know three guys use them for snow plowing but their in the older blazers.

Scooby

[Carder09]

From what I hear, the G80's are garbage. Especially with heavy use i.e. off roading. Best to just by a Detroit locker and call it a day.

[Badass69]

From what I hear, the G80's are garbage. Especially with heavy use i.e. off roading. Best to just by a Detroit locker and call it a day.

 

Detroit's rock even as a daily driver. Gov locks are junk... just a finicky problem riddled thing that never works when you want or need it. The only love I ever see for them is from people that could have an open differential and never know the difference.

 

The video from Eaton should explain the governor operation well. Its a locker... that relies in clutch discs to lock it. Good for people that can't drive lol.

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[LongrangeLauber]

I was looking at getting a Detroit locker for the rear anyways since now that I know the g80 is a locker and not a posi unit (want to replace it with something similar and not downgrade)

 

But I'm still not sure if I need a "loaded" or "unloaded" front open carrier?

 

I'm guessing loaded because I'm assuming that comes with the spider gears installed and whatever else goes in there

[MikeNH]

A loaded carrier I think means its assembled- ie the spider gears and bearings and such.

[Badass69]

I was looking at getting a Detroit locker for the rear anyways since now that I know the g80 is a locker and not a posi unit (want to replace it with something similar and not downgrade)

But I'm still not sure if I need a "loaded" or "unloaded" front open carrier?

I'm guessing loaded because I'm assuming that comes with the spider gears installed and whatever else goes in there

 

No need to replace the front carrier unless something happened to your existing one. I mean you can swap it but inspect the existing one first because no sense spending money on something thst is fine and just buying the same thing again. If you are regearing you just need gears and an install kit for the front. Then whatever carrier you choose for the rear, gears and install kit.

 

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[LongrangeLauber]

Since I'm rebuilding it, should I get aftermarket axles too or would that just be a waste of money? I have two sets of axles right now so I can always choose the best two. And the front diff. has 340k on it so figured the carrier could be freshened up

[Badass69]

Depends. What shape are you existing shafts is the question? They probably have some pretty good wear happening where the bearing and seal ride so new ones wouldn't hurt. Unless you have it in 4wd all the time that front carrier is just floating anyway. True test is pulling the drivers side stub shaft once you unbolt the cv. If its welded in the clip on the shaft has worn into the spider gear on the drivers side. If it pops out easily the front will probably look like new inside.

 

Your call.

 

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[LongrangeLauber]

I will check the axles sitting in my garage tonight. Can't check the ones on the truck. Front axles should be fine because it doesn't go into 4wd that often . But it may just be a smart idea to replace it all while I'm in there