Binding issue

[subymtnguy]

I am having a binding issue on my 92. I have read threads about adding limited slip diff additive to the transmission. I have been unable to locate any of the brands other members have used. I have tube of Trans-X Posi-Trac Limited Slip Gear Oil Additive. Has anyone ever used this brand? If so, did you add it to the diff or the tranny. Directions on the tube say not for use in automatic transmissions or other atf applications.

If this not the correct additive, what additive should I get to add to the tranny? Or is the binding issue caused by the diffs?

Any input apprciated.

Thanks.

[Chiketkd]

First off, before adding any additive look at more obvious causes for the binding - e.g. tire pressures and tire wear.

Are your 4 tires evenly worn or are they wearing at different rates?

Also, if your 4 tires are reasonably even in wear, when was the last time you checked the tire pressures? The factory recommends 33psi front and 29psi rear - members have also noticed +ve results by using 40psi front and 36psi rear.

Only after correcting the two things above, should you add any additive to your trans. That limited slip additive makes everything very slick and if you add too much, it'll cause the clutch plates to slip as well.

-Chike

[lee]

I'm not a big fan of Trans-X products, but that's just me, they may be great. I would think any major US car dealership parts dept would have the proper additive, as well as your Subie dealer - and a good parts house should be able to get it - I got Kendall from a local shop that does a lot of work for trucks. I know GM dealers usually have it - it gets used in many posi rear ends. You can tell if you get the right thing because it usually comes in a 4 ounce container and the additive stinks to high heaven.

that said, Chike had some good advice - have you tried the usual fix for binding, i.e., figure 8s?

and finally, yes, it goes in the tranny, the front diff is open and does not use the stuff. The rear diff is a posi unit and should use it if you replace the fluid with anything other some brands of modern synthetics - which claim it's not needed.

[mohrds]

Binding can also be caused by a clogged trans cooler or clogged secondary filter. An easy test is to take the two metal lines that end under the battery tray and connect them together with a piece of hose. Don't forget to mark which tube originally went where. Then drive the car slowly for a few minutes making tight turns. If the binding is gone, you have a clog. If binding is not gone, try one of the additives.

Doug

[dcarrb]

Nothing to add to this thread, but another, related question: Does this sort of binding suggest recent transmission work? I noticed binding (rather like having the old GL in 4WD on dry pavement) the first time I turned into a tight parking space, but it went away so quickly I'd forgotten about it 'til now.

dcb