I only use my GMC Tracker (Sidekick) to plow snow in the winter. I'd like to weld the rear dif cause I'm tired of getting stuck. I don't know much about this procedure. Is it easy and is it safe in the long run? I'll only drive the truck on the highway about once a week (20 miles) to go get gas. Will it still be ok for that occassional drive? Do you have any details about the procedure? I also have a pair of chains that are a bit too small. I could make them bigger and put them on the rear wheels. Could too much traction be bad for the dif, the transmission (manual) or the clutch? Thanks ahead. Eric from Canada <IMG SRC="smilies/question.gif" border="0">

do a search for welded rears.. I've seen lots of talk on them...
my opinion of a welded in the snow is that it's a bad idea becuase every time you hit the gas you'll do a fish-tale and spin around...I'd say get some better snow tires or something in that direction..

I know guys that hav erun welded diffs for years & had no trouble. I also know guys who tried it and their diffs exploded within a month. I am certain it has a lot to do with what gets welded how - all that heat changes the metal properties. Never known a Suzuki guy with welded diffs, tho. Generally heard about for off-road only vehicles.... an EZ Locker would be much more reliable/safe. <IMG SRC="smilies/wink.gif" border="0">

locked diffs in the snow = <IMG SRC="smilies/jeep1.gif" border="0"> on the side of the road

Thanks for your advices guys. You helped me decide what I should do. I'll put chains on the 4 wheels and forget about the diff.

Chains sound like the way to go - Cheap & easy - what better solution could you get? <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

Good choice!!! You do not want to run locked diffs in rain or snow. The the truck would be uncontrolable. I was a mechanic on slow plows for years. The best trick is good studded snow tires, chains for back up and have some heavy home make weights that you can place in the vehicle to increase its weight; this will increase the pound per square inch on the contact patch. This will make the truck stick like glue. also carry a bag of sand if everything else fails <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/bounce2.gif" border="0">