How to tell if '02-'04 Montero Sport has rear LSD?

[AtlasM]

I've been looking to get a winter truck, and want to have something with an "awd" transfer case (i.e. can be driven in 4wd mode that's not just locked center diff) and a rear locker or LSD, without having to add anything to the truck. I know the Gen 2 SR and Gen 2.5 Winter Package have the rear locker, and '01-'02 Limited has the rear LSD. I live in Madison, WI where there just aren't a ton of used cars on the market, so I've found myself searching a lot of listings online.

I know the '02-'04 Montero Sport have the same "awd" transfer case as regular Monteros, and that there was an available LSD on these models. I found this old 2004 Montero Sport press release. It says...

The XLS option packages help buyers personalize the vehicle to suit their tastes. The Touring Package includes a one-touch power sunroof; dimpled leather covered steering wheel, parking brake lever and shift knob; power sunroof; auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated compass and exterior thermometer; 210-watt Mitsubishi/Infinity(R) AM/FM/CD audio system and limited-slip differential. Buyers may also opt for the XLS Luxury Package, which includes everything on the Touring Package, plus leather seating surfaces.

So that tells me an '04 XLS with a sunroof and Infinity stereo most likely has the LSD.

But is there any other telltale sign that if I called a dealership off their posting online, they would be able to easily check and see about the LSD? Also any idea on the '02-'03 models?

 

[GrassCat]

Most LSD's have a tag on the rear axle saying what gear oil to use. They take a special LSD oil.

I know you can add an additive, just saying.

 

[Sabre]

This won't help you if you're shopping long-distance (unless the seller is a friendly guy and willing to do this for you), but here's a simple way to check if you can get your hands on the vehicle.

Jack up the rear so that both wheels are off the ground. Release the parking brake. Spin one of the rear wheels as if the car were rolling forward. If the opposite-side wheel turns forward also, you have an LSD. If it spins backwards, it's a conventional open diff.