Topic: opinions on lockers please

[Jesse-James]

The Detroit can unlock when off the throttle but it won't unless it's forced to and it takes a pretty sharp turn to get mine to unlock. More predictable than a lunchbox in adverse conditions IMHO.

[FourbangerYJ]

The middle 3 larger gears with teeth are the ones that allow it to unlock. The springs on each side let the teeth slip, which others have said can cause a loud pop. Once you learn to keep torque applied while cornering it stays locked. If you are on the gas, then off it can cause it to pop. Just keep light pressure on the gas pedal while cornering and it should stay locked.

The Detroit can unlock when off the throttle but it won't unless it's forced to and it takes a pretty sharp turn to get mine to unlock. More predictable than a lunchbox in adverse conditions IMHO.

I had a Lockright first. The Detroit is almost invisible compaired. I really like them!

[stan98tj]

after reading all your responses (and i truly appreciate all the input) i def have my mind made up-my jeep will be locked before the coming summer. Though i think ill go for a selectable locker rather than an auto one (though i may reread this thread by then and change my mind lol)
 now (and i hope i dont open a can of worms with this question) will i need to swap out my front axle or beef it up if im locking it or is the stock axle ok to lock? I plan to have 32s on by the time i lock the front-dunno if the added tire weight changes opinions on this matter. Again, i appreciate any input on this matter.
-stan

[dwtaylorpdx]

The front axle isn't the problem its the rear, if you have the POS D35 axle its a waste of money to change the oil in it.... IMHO 


Dave

[Bounty Hunter]

Once you learn to keep torque applied while cornering it stays locked. If you are on the gas, then off it can cause it to pop. Just keep light pressure on the gas pedal while cornering and it should stay locked.

Just as well install a spool then.

[stan98tj]

so the front axle should handle a locker well even with the added  weight of 32s...

[Jesse-James]

so the front axle should handle a locker well even with the added  weight of 32s...

Yes

[FourbangerYJ]

Just as well install a spool then.

I'd rather have a Detroit. Spools push to much.

[stan98tj]

Yes

how about the rear d35s? 32s shouldnt hurt em right?

[Jesse-James]

I beat on mine with 33's with no issues.....my buddy broke his on the street with stock 225's

It's a crapshoot.


Carry a spare shaft and if it breaks, swap it.

[dwtaylorpdx]

I did not break shafts on either of mine I destroyed the center section, The bearing carriers
spread out and the pinion jumped the ring gear and instant shrapnel. According to ARB this
was a common occurrence and they saw it all the time.... But I'm not bitter! 

Dave

[jfrabat]

how about the rear d35s? 32s shouldnt hurt em right?

I have ARB's in mine, but I do use a 30 spline alloy shaft as well...  Honestly speaking, it may be easier/cheaper to swap in a ford 8.8 for the rear, and not only will you have a stronger axle with the same bolt pattern, but you will also gain disc brakes for the rear in the process (if you pick the right axle; you are looking for a mid '90s explorer!).  All you need to do to drop this axle in is to put new spring perches and change the DS...  Same thing you would need to do for a CV shaft, basically...

[Jesse-James]

96-01 for disc brakes. Also need a rear yoke to flange adapter.

[stan98tj]

ok so from what i gather: lock the front and add 32s..no problem. auto lockers/selectable have pros and cons ( im goin with selectable) rear d35s wont mind the 32s, but dont lock the rear cause it will prob break. i wanted to make sure the fronts could handle a locker and 32s (u guys have put me at ease on that topic) and i guess ill just leave the rear unlocked ( i dont mind) and be careful when on the trail.
thanks again guys.
stan

[jfrabat]

ok so from what i gather: lock the front and add 32s..no problem. auto lockers/selectable have pros and cons ( im goin with selectable) rear d35s wont mind the 32s, but dont lock the rear cause it will prob break. i wanted to make sure the fronts could handle a locker and 32s (u guys have put me at ease on that topic) and i guess ill just leave the rear unlocked ( i dont mind) and be careful when on the trail.
thanks again guys.
stan

If you are careful with the skinny pedal and baby it, you could lock it as well, but I would not unless I ungraded the axle.  Another option would be a limited slip for the rear (not as hard on the axle as a locker, but better traction than open diffs).