Gov-lock issue - AAM 10.5" (i.e. new 14FF)

[6.2Blazer]

At some point in time this morning on the way to work the Gov-lock in my '03 2500HD decided to lock and stay locked (as in the rear tires are locked together just like it had a spool). Didn't hear anything, just noticed handling was a little weird around sharper corners and then noticed the chirping of the rear tires while turning in the parking lot. I turned several circles in both directions and forward and backwards and it still stays locked. Just drove the truck last night with no issues.

I won't be able to pull the cover until tomorrow after work (it's in the 20s during the day and refuse to do this until I can get it into our shop tomorrow).

1. Anything in particuliar I should look for after pulling the cover? I need to get a schematic of the Gov-lock. I've rebuilt diffs before just never really dealt with a Gov-lock.

2. Assuming something needs replaced:
a. What complete rear axles will interchange (sometimes it's cheaper and easier to swap in a complete rear axle).
b. Recommendations on aftermarket limited slips? Obviously if the Gov-lock failed I'm hesitant to replace it with a new one, but do not want an open diff or true locker (Detroit, etc...).

I've been pretty happy with the performance of the Gov-lock in this truck which I bought new and put over 108k on it.

 

[StreetshocK]

I also have an '03 2500HD and had the Gov-Loc replaced when I geared it with an Eaton Posi.
The Gov-loc is a "decent" unit but its weakness is the little parts that grenade and eat the gears inside.
The unit has a small weight, with a spring that extends on wheel spin to lock the diff, It sounds like the small spring broke and the weight has done what its supposed to do and locked you up.
Its an EZ fix if your familliar with diffs in general, I believe you can replace the spring without taking the carrier out. Good luck!

 

[6.2Blazer]

I also have an '03 2500HD and had the Gov-Loc replaced when I geared it with an Eaton Posi.
The Gov-loc is a "decent" unit but its weakness is the little parts that grenade and eat the gears inside.
The unit has a small weight, with a spring that extends on wheel spin to lock the diff, It sounds like the small spring broke and the weight has done what its supposed to do and locked you up.
Its an EZ fix if your familliar with diffs in general, I believe you can replace the spring without taking the carrier out. Good luck!

I'll take a look. I've completely rebuilt the 14FF and D60 in the Blazer so somewhat familiar with digging into diffs.

 

[6.2Blazer]

Can anybody verify that the factory Dodge torsen-style limited slip they used in the 10.5" AAM would work? Choices seem to be between another Gov-lock, Eaton Posi, or the Dodge torsen (which seems to work well).