Gov lock or stock clutch type LSD?

Kyle17321 · December 25, 2015

Ok so I found a diff laying around the shop I work at and found out it's a "gov lock" made by GM that just so happens to be the same 8.5" RG as the diff in my Yukon. My question is, would I be better off swapping in the gov lock or keeping my original one? My truck is completely stock and I do not race or burn out either. I am looking for enhanced traction in mud/snow/dirt/gravel. Any info is appreciated.

Clay_Lucas · December 25, 2015

Ok so I found a diff laying around the shop I work at and found out it's a "gov lock" made by GM that just so happens to be the same 8.5" RG as the diff in my Yukon. My question is, would I be better off swapping in the gov lock or keeping my original one? My truck is completely stock and I do not race or burn out either. I am looking for enhanced traction in mud/snow/dirt/gravel. Any info is appreciated.

The g80 is junk. I'm on my second one, when it does lock up (randomly) it's makes a bunch of weird noise and clunks loudly. Last one blew up, cracked the ring gear and the spiders just turned to dust. If I have to go back to the g80 it's will be 3/4 ton.

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robvas · December 25, 2015

If you don't have a G80 in your Yukon, you have an open rear end. So of course you would be better swapping in a gov-lock.

Kyle17321 · December 25, 2015

My Yukon did come stock with limited slip I called the dealer with the vin and they said it was, so are you saying that my truck already has a gov lock diff? And clay you said it has problems locking up, do you happen to know what part is at fault? Is it a clutch fault or the spring loaded arm that locks the side gears together?

Clay_Lucas · December 25, 2015

My Yukon did come stock with limited slip I called the dealer with the vin and they said it was, so are you saying that my truck already has a gov lock diff? And clay you said it has problems locking up, do you happen to know what part is at fault? Is it a clutch fault or the spring loaded arm that locks the side gears together?

Mine doesn't have any teeth left on the clutches and the Spider gears are missing teeth. Last one I had, I spun the tires to much in the mud. Destroyed it.

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Silverado4x4 · December 26, 2015

I have had G80's in my trucks since 1987 8 different trucks and never had a problem with them, you have to know how to use them and not slamming the throttle and spinning wheels like a mad man like doing doughnuts, power braking etc if you use them like your suppose to you will be fine.

Badass69 · December 26, 2015

A G80 is a piece of garbage because the design shock loads itself every time it engages no matter how slow or gentle you are. If like most of the world including all those that "use them like they are supposed to" and you can get around with an open rear end..... you will never hurt a Gov lock. The best way to not break it is never engage it. They were junk back in 1972 when Eaton released them in the 1973 model trucks and they still are junk today.

Op you have the same G80 in your Yukon already as the one you found. It is not an "upgrade" so please put it in the metal bin it belongs in.

TRUCKGUY84 · April 28, 2016

Gov locks are terrible. They are known for exploding and taking most of its guts with it. A dura grip is the way to go. They are race ready and virtually bullet proof. United States Powertrain has some great deals on these. Def. worth taking a look at.