Wow. Had no idea when watching other videos, but your richness and depth of your knowledge and the way you lay it out in the simplest way for the viewers is just amazing. Huge respect to you sir!
Great job on this vid! I have an 89 XJ with 4:88's and Detroit trutrac's both front and rear, with a dana 44 and 35" tires. they are pretty awesome in the snow and ice, as well as offroad. No hassle, and they handle well on the pavement as well. Highly recommend.
Great educational video on lockers. The last time I welded spider gears was back in 2017 on a 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera Cruiser. What a great demolition derby car that was.
Just got my first jeep and have seen many people mention lockers. Of course I had no idea to what they have been referring to till now. Very informative and helpful. Thanks for the video. Loved the drawing board too
Thank you for this video. I am new to all this 4x4 technology, but I am learning these upgrades are essential to performance when off road. I have been watching Matt’s channel a lot, and they talk about lockers when doing their builds. Now I understand better what this all means.
Loved this video. Wished it was around before I spent big money and cumulative precious time dealing with ARBs. Unconditionally avoid ARBs! Had ARBs installed with gear change into my '87 XJ Dana 44 back in 2004. Was told they were bullet proof. On test drive following installation, front "lollipop" failed because of bad solder joint at seal housing. Shop honored the work, but missed trip opportunity due to additional time required for rework. I've experienced compressor and line failures on every rock crawling trip I've ever taken. Trail repairs inevitable, and I only get out a couple times a year, Moab and Colorado. Two weeks ago replaced third compressor only to discover hissing in rear Dana 44. Rear engages, but compressor runs continuously. I'm considering a lunch box replacement for the rear, something I can install. I totally agree about the simplicity of the Ox locker cable setup, but do not want to re-buy at near ARB prices. Consider yourselves warned, an advantage I didn't have. Google "ARB air leaks".
With lockers I AM SURPRISED at how I do not need 4x4 to get through a lot of terrane I previously needed 4x4. When in sand dunes etc... in 4x4 with 2 lockers it goes far better with them. I have Ausie lockers and do not notice bad driving or noise. I have not used them in snow or ice but have had no issue on street or off road.
After having numerous lockers over the past 18 yrs. From lunchbox lockers to selectibles. When the locker goes out it takes the axle out as well and needs a rebuilt if not too worn. Having a daily driver XJ I've put a ton of miles on, which also limits your front options. At one point I wanted to install a hub conversion but it's not worth the $$$. So my latest units are truetracs. So far VERY impressed. On road is great also, hardly noticed. Off-road even better. Hells revenge tested and approved. My rig is built for reliability and takes me every where I want to go. Snow runs are my favorite.
Truetracs seem to be the best upgrade from everyone's comments and I will give it a go in the back of my 92 Toyota pickup, I'll leave the front alone for now since I have a 12,000 lb winch up there for those true emergencies.
This is the best video I have ever seen for clearly and easily explaining the difference between locker types. I get asked about this from my friends and my explanation is always too complicated and/or too convoluted. From now on, I'm just going to send them all here!
Thank you for the help! Went with front true tack and ox locker in the rear with a regear to 4.56 and chromoly shafts, I'm absolutely in love with the set up in my 2015 jku
Excellent instruction on traction devices. I finally understand the comparisons of differential lockers and their applications. Thanks for taking the time to share this video.
This was absolutely the best video I’ve seen on differentials. All this Stuff is so confusing, and some people make it way over the top. You just put me back to school, thank you very much for educating me, now I know what to do. I’m a subscriber now👍🏼
The first time I ever had a locker was about two weeks ago. I had just swapped in a junkyard 14 bolt FF rear into my old suburban. I also installed a beefy pinion guard at the same time. Just for LOL’s, I put a big ol’ rock from my yard right in front of the pinion guard. When I proceeded to drive over the rock, the guard did it’s job and the differential went up and onto the rock. With the massive 14 bolt housing, it naturally lifted one tire as it slid over the rock. I had left it in 2wd, as soon as the tire lifted, the locker sprang into action and locked the rear. With a little heavy throttle, the one wheel dragged that boulder under the diff for almost 2 feet, before the diff finally jumped over and past the rock. I was blown away by how effective it was. I have always driven open diff 4x4’s, this was a game changer; I knew they were good, but never actually saw how good they were in person. For the record, the differential is a factory old-pattern Gov-Lock (the only version that doesn’t blow up, but actually holds up well). Can’t wait until I install a Detroit or Torq-Locker.
In my 1978 Dodge Ramcharger which is full time 4x4 (NP 203transfer case) I am running 2 limited slip differentials . I have a Dana 44 front and a 9 1/4 rear axle . For a truck that really only sees muddy trails and fields this setup is perfect .
One of the best videos with detailed explanations I've seen. I know it's not easy to explain a part (or system) and its multiple variations, but you did an awesome job at it.
I ran a Powertrax lunchbox locker in my el Camino and it was horrible in the rain. it would send the tail end into the other lane when it would unlock, I cant imagine what it would do in the snow. Was great for straight line traction though and was really simple to install. It would pop when it unlocked and was really unpredictable, sometimes it would unlock around a corner, sometimes it would just drag the tire. Finally just switched it out for an Eaton Tru-Trac and was never happier.
The truetrac uses helical gears' own worst enemy to function. Helical gears create axial thrust when they turn eachother, which normally means they require special bearings. The greater force/ resistance of each gear (heavy load) the more axial thrust they create. This axial thrust is manipulated by the truetrac. When the differential is operating on pavement, the gears allow normal function, as there is low resistance to turning. However, during traction loss, one wheel has significant resistance in contrast to the other wheel. This resistance creates high thrust load, which causes the Helical output (splined to shaft) gear to push against the end of the carrier. As resistance builds, so does thrust. The pressure creates friction between the gear and carrier, thus effectively locking the differential together. When input torque is increased, the clamping force, and therefore friction is increased and the differential locks even tighter, but as soon as torque reduces past a certain point, the diff will unlock and resume normal function.
Cody, great explanation of the physics! Tyler, at the very end of the video, you say that the best application for a front axle is a selectable locker. Why wouldn't an Eaton TrueTrac LSD be applicable on the front differential?
I just bought a Toyota 4 Runner with some sort of locker in the front. It snowed today so I took it out. It has 35 in mud tires too. So I'm in a snowy parking lot and was trying it out and it worked great. So I took it out of 4 hi and tried driving my it and as soon as I hit a dry patch I almost could not turn. I had to get out and unlock the hubs. I think I might have a detroit locker because I can't hear any poping are noises. When the hubs are unlocked each tire is able to turn independently but when locked go the same direction. Still learning but at least it has some sort of traction adder. I might have to test into it to find out. But I think I'm getting an Ox locker with cable and shifter because it's less to break and easier to fix if it does. Plus I here good things about them. Thanks for all the info
I live in Virginia Beach so i have no rocks or opportunities for crawling to really worry about so i went with the Yukon Duragrip limited slip diffs in my 94 bronco. I have nothing but good things to say about them. I really only get to play in the mud, sand and occasional snow and they have worked flawlessly. Along with the Yukon 4.56 gears they are very quite and have improved my on road comfort and confidence. When i put the pedal down all four without fail spin and get me through. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for an upgrade over open diffs if you're playing in the mud sand or snow.
Pretty good information in this video. I put "lunchbox" lockers (Lock-Rite) in the front and rear of my C10. No clicking, but it occasionally will bang (happens about once a year). No unusual road manners whatsoever. I put a True-Trac in the rear of my Silverado; absolutely transparent and not much more $ than a Lock-Rite!!
Ran a Detroit locker in my 79 Bronco in the 70s. I had Ground Hawg tires that leaked. When tire pressure differential was great enough the locker would unlock then lock again causing violent side to side shift. The directional tire didn’t help either. It was really bad in the winter.
In an open differential, torque DOES NOT all flow to the wheel with least traction. The wheel with least traction limits the amount of torque that can be put down on the wheel with most traction. BOTH wheels are getting the SAME torque, regardless of whether one wheel is spinning or not.
i have a 99 limited and will be changing my entire undercarriage to go from rear wheel to 4x4. I have a blank slate and this video has help me figure out what i want to start with.
I guess i am a bit old school here. But for 10+ years i have been running a TrueTrac/Detroit combo. TrueTrac in the front and a Detroit in the rear. I will admit in the MJ with low wight on the rear. In the Ice/Snow and 2wd... You have to be more aware of the rear darting off in a direction you did not want. Especially when you start from a stop.(Due to the fact that the Detroit has a bit of play and then a POP as it engages, Add in a Manual and you can brake the tires free at will) But the Truetrac is great makes no noticeable steering issues. In the dirt and the mud. you can feel that front axle hunting for traction. When in snow/Ice that combo works perfect.. The ARB was the only selectable on the market back then. (To this day not a fan of ARB Personally) If i had to do it again. I would TrueTrac the front and OX the rear. Cable with a OX bypass kit in the tool bag. I have a LunchBox in my 2wd MJ....... Its literally a fair weather truck.. Its fun and will make everyone think your on it as it chirps and barks around a corner, but in the snow/Ice.. its just scary. If its a heavy truck like 8k+ and has good tires the Detroit style is fine.. But in most any Jeep.... Not advised unless you need to drive to the drag strip.
Running the same, trutrac in front and Detroit in rear. It’s in a 4 door wrangler running 4.88 gears/6 spd and it works great. Detroit allows me to do a lot in 2wd but as you said is sketchy In snow and ice. Same, if had to do it Over again a selectable locker in the rear for better road manners. But I don’t regret tthe combination I run.
Realize this is old, but i found it just in time. Am moving from 307s to 458s on a TJ and was in need of an education on LS vs Lockers and overview of the different options as the labor is not cheap- certainly the right time to add some traction! new 458s, super 35 w/ an LSD is in the budget, lockers are not. I don't go to crazy off road- should suit my needs just fine. Thanks for the video!
I've driven a mustang with a spool on the street. Short of parking lots hopping and skipping, there was no major disadvantage. Even been in the rain with them and once in the snow; just have to know how to handle the car. One thing I liked about them was that the car was much more predictable in a drift - compared to the limited slips it had destroyed in the past - it just felt more natural and much more precise having the back wheels spin at the same time and knowing you're gonna go forward no matter what.
I have a lock right locker in the front of my jeep and find it is great on road. It essentially doesn't engage until it is in 4wd because until then the front axle has no power going to it. I drive all year round in Ontario with snow ice and slush and have never had an issue. I have a tru trac in my dana 44 and could not be more happier with the pair. Great on and off road manners. Just another opinion
I have a Aussie in my XJ's D30 and when I engage 4WD (231- offroad only) my steering really suffers, I even have a PSC assist ram. I think Im going to get rid of it soon. Does your front auto locker make it hard to steer? Maybe I just don't know what I'm doing...
My 99 Blazer had an Eaton G80 locker. Was pretty impressed with that little thing. If it locked itself up it would usually kick out at about 25 to 30 miles an hour. My 07 Yukon has the same thing. And I prefer that over a limited-slip
This makes the E-locker that came on my Cherokee KL all the more bad ass. What was once a $1500 add on for solid axle vehicles is now in my car based crossover.
i kinda went the backwards way with my jeep, i have a spartan lunch box in my d30, with the right gear oil, i havent had any problems with it, it is completely unnoticeable while driving on the street. For the rear i have an ARB air locker in my ford 8.8, i have on board air so i just tapped into it so it just made sense to go that route.
If it's all the same to you, Lincoln Locking a diff is the best $ bang for the buck I 100% recommend a Lincoln Lock if your on a budget and want instant results.
I learned a lot in this video. I like the lincoln locker, miller magic, or hobart hillclimber. It's not THAT bad to drive it on the street... but definitely interesting to drive in the snow.
good tip for yj owners, front passenger axle shaft is engaged by a vacuum actuator, the shaft will not spin/engage unless the actuator senses vacuum(has to be in 4x4), change the vacuum to cable, its not only more reliable but you will have the ability to run a front locker and choose when you want to spin that front passenger tire, basically making it a selectable locker. i havent done this so correct me if im wrong its just something ive read.
You're absolutely right, however if you've converted the front axle to a 1-piece like I have, you cant do this anymore. The other problem is the collar that locks the two passenger side axle shafts together in the YJ's is really a weak point. Depending on your tire size and driving style, you'll soon destroy that collar if your really aggressive off road.
Well done video, I could not agree more. I will add this, I have a Detroit up front in my Dana 60 king pin. With selectable hubs you can get away with it and there are some good choices out there to convert to manual hubs which last longer and in my book just work better.
I've had a spool in a 2wd 5 speed S10 for over a year, drive it daily and for me it made the truck more perdictable then when it had an open diff, at least now I know it'll spin or slide both wheels all the time instead of just randomly doing whatever it wants, I'll admit you have to be cautious on slick roads and it does eat tires pretty quick
I have been a mechanic all my life and agree with you almost completely, one other fact you should bring up is with a limited slip and clutches a certain low mileage a little clutch wear and they are friggan worthless!
I've ran an eaton e-locker for about 6 mo, wheeling around Wyoming and Colorado mostly. It has worked well so far, I do wish there was an audible noise for me to hear it engage/disengage. Of course you can tell by turning radius, but it's a quality of life thing.
Ran a Detroit Locker in the back of my IH Scout for many years. Occasional chirp or bang during a turn on the highway. Never made me change lanes, lol. Had a LS in the front axle. Useless in the snow and ice.
Great explanation of the different types of differentials and how they operate. I can now make an informed decision on which to buy. I hate shooting in the dark! You don't know what your going to get and then your stuck with it! Ugh! You did a great job thanks! 4X4 = 16 Forever feeling like a kid!
Absolutely the best video explaining this shit hands down. Finally! Thank you so much. I just learned all the pieces I never could figure out about Lockers. Funny part is, I'm a wheeler to, big time. But just never could figure this all out exactly. Now I know.
I like the Ox locker with cable shift. It also comes with a plug that if the cable brakes you can manually screw in this plug to lock or unlock the diff.
thanks for the info. I have a 2000 xj, with dana 30 hp up front and Chrysler 8.25 in the rear. Based on watching your video, I am going to upgrade the rear first to a Truetrac torque sensing LSD and later, go with the cable OX locker in the front.
SPOOLS can be set up in front dana60 (F250 06) cz there is manual hub locks and the transfer case do not spin the front driveshaft while in 2wd. I do it and trust me Its a game changer for my offroad recovery tank
Have a 93 YJ with lunch box front and rear. Did it when I had a gear change and axle swap plus a few other extras. The bill at the time was over $5000. The extra $1000 would have been a bank breaker. In hind sight I wish I had put a different type of locker in the rear. All in all, I am happy with the lockers. Climbs much better. I had it on two wheels. One front, one rear with a little teeter action going on. Would have never gotten out of that with open diffs. You need to learn how to drive it with the lunch box locker. Easy on the stupid pedal. Use highest gear possible around corners. Most important is not to get stupid in the snow. Drove it first time on road the last few weeks in the snow. Had no problems at all in 4X4. Once again, highest gear possible to keep RPM's down. This was after having them for three years. So much for man made warming, lol. I admit, I do get a little wiggle in the rear when hard shifting. Not lane changing type of wiggle, I have never done that. I also get the chirp when trying get into traffic fast. Once in a while, normally in a parking lot, I get the big clunk. Lunch box lockers are a great cheap fix and easy to install. Just make sure you have axles that can handle them. Then again, this is true of any locker you put in. Nothing like having a cereal axle on the trail, snap, crackle, pop.
Excellent explanation of this feature and the options available on the market. I would like to buy a used Jeep wrangler and with your explanation it will be a Rubicon which will have this feature already installed as I understand, being a air locker system. So very informative overview in helping me make the decision. Thanks and Be safe.
I personally have the TrueTrac dif on my 2012 JKU and with proper mud tires I am able to cross paths that other Jeeps need lockers to go through. Really impressed with their performance. Thanks for the vid, very informative again :)
Mahalo (Thank you in Hawaiian) for the informative video.. I've been leaning towards both a road and trail model limited slip Eaton type lockers for a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 5.2L gas engine... I'm inexperienced but very teachable and adaptable older fellow on a fixed income.. I love independence, mobility and doing most everything myself with what I have available.. I have to acquire the vehicle first then make the final repair modifications myself.. Keep me in mind... ALOHA Brah
Got a 96 xj setup real nice, would highly recommend if your running 33’s Gears: 4.10 Front Axles Dana 30 HP 30 Spline Chromolly Rear Axles Chrysler 8.25 29 Spline Yukon Rear Locker: Eaton Detroit True Trac LSD Front Locker: Eaton E-Locke
17:41 A selectable locker literally does give you the 'BEST' of both worlds. It's open for optimum on road manners, and controllability, and it's fully locked giving you 4wd on demand in 'all' conditions, and also it's 'selectable' so you can even chose when all this happens... what more could a man want?
The Eaton in my truck became a one legger to quickly for the price I paid for it and the installation.. I would never run a limited slip on anything I own as they become a open differential the minute you need them.
0:05 Yes that looked heavy. Amazing how parts are so heavy and so many of them, like tat locker, alternator, starter, battery, etc and the auto makes moving it and accelerating seem easy.
clutches in an LSD do in fact lock up however they do wear out which requires maintenance depending on how much abuse the receive! a torsen lsd has no clutches to wear out but if one wheel is in the air it acts as an open LSD, you are required to apply the brake lightly in this situation for it to work Im looking at a cable OX, excellent design and simplicity!
thank you so much. so informative. I still don't know what I want but I feel I have all the info now. except, what happens to the tru trac when one wheel is in the air?
pablo diablo If your vehicle has brake traction control it will ad torque to the system by braking the spinning wheel and locking the differential. If you don't you just touch the brakes and the torque from the spinning wheel locks the differential.
Wow. Had no idea when watching other videos, but your richness and depth of your knowledge and the way you lay it out in the simplest way for the viewers is just amazing. Huge respect to you sir!
@Geno Ory and very selectable with his facts
Great job on this vid! I have an 89 XJ with 4:88's and Detroit trutrac's both front and rear, with a dana 44 and 35" tires. they are pretty awesome in the snow and ice, as well as offroad. No hassle, and they handle well on the pavement as well. Highly recommend.
Great educational video on lockers. The last time I welded spider gears was back in 2017 on a 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera Cruiser. What a great demolition derby car that was.
You sir are a hell of a teacher. I can now now only understand how lockers work, but even explain it to my friends.
Just got my first jeep and have seen many people mention lockers. Of course I had no idea to what they have been referring to till now. Very informative and helpful. Thanks for the video. Loved the drawing board too
Thank you for this video. I am new to all this 4x4 technology, but I am learning these upgrades are essential to performance when off road. I have been watching Matt’s channel a lot, and they talk about lockers when doing their builds. Now I understand better what this all means.
Loved this video. Wished it was around before I spent big money and cumulative precious time dealing with ARBs. Unconditionally avoid ARBs! Had ARBs installed with gear change into my '87 XJ Dana 44 back in 2004. Was told they were bullet proof. On test drive following installation, front "lollipop" failed because of bad solder joint at seal housing. Shop honored the work, but missed trip opportunity due to additional time required for rework. I've experienced compressor and line failures on every rock crawling trip I've ever taken. Trail repairs inevitable, and I only get out a couple times a year, Moab and Colorado. Two weeks ago replaced third compressor only to discover hissing in rear Dana 44. Rear engages, but compressor runs continuously. I'm considering a lunch box replacement for the rear, something I can install. I totally agree about the simplicity of the Ox locker cable setup, but do not want to re-buy at near ARB prices. Consider yourselves warned, an advantage I didn't have. Google "ARB air leaks".
Don't have any of these issues with auto lockers
With lockers I AM SURPRISED at how I do not need 4x4 to get through a lot of terrane
I previously needed 4x4. When in sand dunes etc... in 4x4 with 2 lockers it goes far better with them. I have Ausie lockers and do not notice bad driving or noise. I have not used them in snow or ice but have had no issue on street or off road.
well said sir, I agree with you.
After having numerous lockers over the past 18 yrs. From lunchbox lockers to selectibles. When the locker goes out it takes the axle out as well and needs a rebuilt if not too worn.
Having a daily driver XJ I've put a ton of miles on, which also limits your front options.
At one point I wanted to install a hub conversion but it's not worth the $$$.
So my latest units are truetracs. So far VERY impressed. On road is great also, hardly noticed.
Off-road even better. Hells revenge tested and approved.
My rig is built for reliability and takes me every where I want to go. Snow runs are my favorite.
Truetracs seem to be the best upgrade from everyone's comments and I will give it a go in the back of my 92 Toyota pickup, I'll leave the front alone for now since I have a 12,000 lb winch up there for those true emergencies.
This is the best video I have ever seen for clearly and easily explaining the difference between locker types. I get asked about this from my friends and my explanation is always too complicated and/or too convoluted. From now on, I'm just going to send them all here!
Thank you for the help! Went with front true tack and ox locker in the rear with a regear to 4.56 and chromoly shafts, I'm absolutely in love with the set up in my 2015 jku
Excellent instruction on traction devices. I finally understand the comparisons of differential lockers and their applications. Thanks for taking the time to share this video.
This was absolutely the best video I’ve seen on differentials. All this Stuff is so confusing, and some people make it way over the top. You just put me back to school, thank you very much for educating me, now I know what to do. I’m a subscriber now👍🏼
The first time I ever had a locker was about two weeks ago. I had just swapped in a junkyard 14 bolt FF rear into my old suburban. I also installed a beefy pinion guard at the same time. Just for LOL’s, I put a big ol’ rock from my yard right in front of the pinion guard. When I proceeded to drive over the rock, the guard did it’s job and the differential went up and onto the rock. With the massive 14 bolt housing, it naturally lifted one tire as it slid over the rock. I had left it in 2wd, as soon as the tire lifted, the locker sprang into action and locked the rear. With a little heavy throttle, the one wheel dragged that boulder under the diff for almost 2 feet, before the diff finally jumped over and past the rock. I was blown away by how effective it was. I have always driven open diff 4x4’s, this was a game changer; I knew they were good, but never actually saw how good they were in person.
For the record, the differential is a factory old-pattern Gov-Lock (the only version that doesn’t blow up, but actually holds up well). Can’t wait until I install a Detroit or Torq-Locker.
In my 1978 Dodge Ramcharger which is full time 4x4 (NP 203transfer case) I am running 2 limited slip differentials . I have a Dana 44 front and a 9 1/4 rear axle . For a truck that really only sees muddy trails and fields this setup is perfect .
One of the best videos with detailed explanations I've seen. I know it's not easy to explain a part (or system) and its multiple variations, but you did an awesome job at it.
I ran a Powertrax lunchbox locker in my el Camino and it was horrible in the rain. it would send the tail end into the other lane when it would unlock, I cant imagine what it would do in the snow. Was great for straight line traction though and was really simple to install. It would pop when it unlocked and was really unpredictable, sometimes it would unlock around a corner, sometimes it would just drag the tire. Finally just switched it out for an Eaton Tru-Trac and was never happier.
very informative. I've got an ARB in the rear of my XJ now and have a Lock Right on the counter ready to go in the front.
That is by far the best explanation anywhere you can look! Thank you so much for your time!!!
Added G2 Dana 44's to my TJ last year. So I went with the ARB'S. I love them!!!! 4.56 gears. will have 35 inch tires next year
Definitely explained phenomenally where any person can decide which to put or take. Thank you very much and Merry Christmas.
The truetrac uses helical gears' own worst enemy to function. Helical gears create axial thrust when they turn eachother, which normally means they require special bearings. The greater force/ resistance of each gear (heavy load) the more axial thrust they create. This axial thrust is manipulated by the truetrac. When the differential is operating on pavement, the gears allow normal function, as there is low resistance to turning. However, during traction loss, one wheel has significant resistance in contrast to the other wheel. This resistance creates high thrust load, which causes the Helical output (splined to shaft) gear to push against the end of the carrier. As resistance builds, so does thrust. The pressure creates friction between the gear and carrier, thus effectively locking the differential together. When input torque is increased, the clamping force, and therefore friction is increased and the differential locks even tighter, but as soon as torque reduces past a certain point, the diff will unlock and resume normal function.
exactly why I didn't try to explain all that on camera!
Truetrac is not a locking diff.
Cody, great explanation of the physics! Tyler, at the very end of the video, you say that the best application for a front axle is a selectable locker. Why wouldn't an Eaton TrueTrac LSD be applicable on the front differential?
He is worth every bit of me subscribing he talks in layman turn Thankyou keep up the great tutorials
I just bought a Toyota 4 Runner with some sort of locker in the front. It snowed today so I took it out. It has 35 in mud tires too. So I'm in a snowy parking lot and was trying it out and it worked great. So I took it out of 4 hi and tried driving my it and as soon as I hit a dry patch I almost could not turn. I had to get out and unlock the hubs. I think I might have a detroit locker because I can't hear any poping are noises. When the hubs are unlocked each tire is able to turn independently but when locked go the same direction. Still learning but at least it has some sort of traction adder. I might have to test into it to find out. But I think I'm getting an Ox locker with cable and shifter because it's less to break and easier to fix if it does. Plus I here good things about them. Thanks for all the info
I have a rear welded diff in my YJ, and then an ox locker in the front. Love the set up, couldnt be better.
Is it a daily driver too?
No but it is a sunday driver/weekend wheeler. D 44 swap in the rear too, would not run a 35 with a locker unless it was fully built.
One of the most informative and inclusive commentaries on traction devices I've ever found. Thank you! So many questions answered.
EXCELLENT VIDEO!!!!! Very well done!! I cannot say enough about how informative this was. Thanks!!
I live in Virginia Beach so i have no rocks or opportunities for crawling to really worry about so i went with the Yukon Duragrip limited slip diffs in my 94 bronco. I have nothing but good things to say about them. I really only get to play in the mud, sand and occasional snow and they have worked flawlessly. Along with the Yukon 4.56 gears they are very quite and have improved my on road comfort and confidence. When i put the pedal down all four without fail spin and get me through. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for an upgrade over open diffs if you're playing in the mud sand or snow.
Great video. Looking at a true trac myself, so I was really glad to hear you like them
Pretty good information in this video. I put "lunchbox" lockers (Lock-Rite) in the front and rear of my C10. No clicking, but it occasionally will bang (happens about once a year). No unusual road manners whatsoever. I put a True-Trac in the rear of my Silverado; absolutely transparent and not much more $ than a Lock-Rite!!
The best video here in RUclips about lockers. Great job explaining and thank you for sharing.👍
this video is amazing, learned a lot about diffs that have been confusing me for along time
Ran a Detroit locker in my 79 Bronco in the 70s. I had Ground Hawg tires that leaked. When tire pressure differential was great enough the locker would unlock then lock again causing violent side to side shift. The directional tire didn’t help either. It was really bad in the winter.
That eagle screeching in the background brings a tear to my eye
actually, it was a hawk
In an open differential, torque DOES NOT all flow to the wheel with least traction. The wheel with least traction limits the amount of torque that can be put down on the wheel with most traction. BOTH wheels are getting the SAME torque, regardless of whether one wheel is spinning or not.
i have a 99 limited and will be changing my entire undercarriage to go from rear wheel to 4x4. I have a blank slate and this video has help me figure out what i want to start with.
Love the TrueTrac, had front and back in my JKU. It drove great. I'm sad they don't make them for the Gladiator (yet).
I guess i am a bit old school here. But for 10+ years i have been running a TrueTrac/Detroit combo. TrueTrac in the front and a Detroit in the rear. I will admit in the MJ with low wight on the rear. In the Ice/Snow and 2wd... You have to be more aware of the rear darting off in a direction you did not want. Especially when you start from a stop.(Due to the fact that the Detroit has a bit of play and then a POP as it engages, Add in a Manual and you can brake the tires free at will) But the Truetrac is great makes no noticeable steering issues. In the dirt and the mud. you can feel that front axle hunting for traction. When in snow/Ice that combo works perfect.. The ARB was the only selectable on the market back then. (To this day not a fan of ARB Personally) If i had to do it again. I would TrueTrac the front and OX the rear. Cable with a OX bypass kit in the tool bag. I have a LunchBox in my 2wd MJ....... Its literally a fair weather truck.. Its fun and will make everyone think your on it as it chirps and barks around a corner, but in the snow/Ice.. its just scary. If its a heavy truck like 8k+ and has good tires the Detroit style is fine.. But in most any Jeep.... Not advised unless you need to drive to the drag strip.
Running the same, trutrac in front and Detroit in rear. It’s in a 4 door wrangler running 4.88 gears/6 spd and it works great. Detroit allows me to do a lot in 2wd but as you said is sketchy In snow and ice. Same, if had to do it Over again a selectable locker in the rear for better road manners. But I don’t regret tthe combination I run.
Great video, very educational, thank you for putting it together! Gunna be putting a lunchbox locker (lock-right) into a CJ-2A (rear).
I think you did a great job of keeping it simple and some nice show and tell. Good Job.
I'm pretty happy to learn that my jeep to be has air arb already installed and that that it's actually pretty alright :)
awesome explanation ! im running the ox lockers front and rear on my 2000 wj and love them
You guys always amaze me with how well put together and informative your videos are! Awesome job!
Realize this is old, but i found it just in time. Am moving from 307s to 458s on a TJ and was in need of an education on LS vs Lockers and overview of the different options as the labor is not cheap- certainly the right time to add some traction! new 458s, super 35 w/ an LSD is in the budget, lockers are not. I don't go to crazy off road- should suit my needs just fine. Thanks for the video!
I've driven a mustang with a spool on the street. Short of parking lots hopping and skipping, there was no major disadvantage. Even been in the rain with them and once in the snow; just have to know how to handle the car. One thing I liked about them was that the car was much more predictable in a drift - compared to the limited slips it had destroyed in the past - it just felt more natural and much more precise having the back wheels spin at the same time and knowing you're gonna go forward no matter what.
I haven’t even finish this video yet and I am loving it
I have a lock right locker in the front of my jeep and find it is great on road. It essentially doesn't engage until it is in 4wd because until then the front axle has no power going to it. I drive all year round in Ontario with snow ice and slush and have never had an issue. I have a tru trac in my dana 44 and could not be more happier with the pair. Great on and off road manners. Just another opinion
I have a Aussie in my XJ's D30 and when I engage 4WD (231- offroad only) my steering really suffers, I even have a PSC assist ram. I think Im going to get rid of it soon. Does your front auto locker make it hard to steer? Maybe I just don't know what I'm doing...
Excellent presentation: good pace, voice tone, camera angles, and demonstration.
My 99 Blazer had an Eaton G80 locker. Was pretty impressed with that little thing. If it locked itself up it would usually kick out at about 25 to 30 miles an hour. My 07 Yukon has the same thing. And I prefer that over a limited-slip
This makes the E-locker that came on my Cherokee KL all the more bad ass. What was once a $1500 add on for solid axle vehicles is now in my car based crossover.
i kinda went the backwards way with my jeep, i have a spartan lunch box in my d30, with the right gear oil, i havent had any problems with it, it is completely unnoticeable while driving on the street. For the rear i have an ARB air locker in my ford 8.8, i have on board air so i just tapped into it so it just made sense to go that route.
If it's all the same to you, Lincoln Locking a diff is the best $ bang for the buck I 100% recommend a Lincoln Lock
if your on a budget and want instant results.
I learned a lot in this video.
I like the lincoln locker, miller magic, or hobart hillclimber.
It's not THAT bad to drive it on the street... but definitely interesting to drive in the snow.
good tip for yj owners, front passenger axle shaft is engaged by a vacuum actuator, the shaft will not spin/engage unless the actuator senses vacuum(has to be in 4x4), change the vacuum to cable, its not only more reliable but you will have the ability to run a front locker and choose when you want to spin that front passenger tire, basically making it a selectable locker. i havent done this so correct me if im wrong its just something ive read.
You're absolutely right, however if you've converted the front axle to a 1-piece like I have, you cant do this anymore. The other problem is the collar that locks the two passenger side axle shafts together in the YJ's is really a weak point. Depending on your tire size and driving style, you'll soon destroy that collar if your really aggressive off road.
Great video . I'm a newbie too Jeep's but learning . Been hearing about lockers but now I have a better understanding.
Well done video, I could not agree more. I will add this, I have a Detroit up front in my Dana 60 king pin. With selectable hubs you can get away with it and there are some good choices out there to convert to manual hubs which last longer and in my book just work better.
I've had a spool in a 2wd 5 speed S10 for over a year, drive it daily and for me it made the truck more perdictable then when it had an open diff, at least now I know it'll spin or slide both wheels all the time instead of just randomly doing whatever it wants, I'll admit you have to be cautious on slick roads and it does eat tires pretty quick
The most informative I’ve seen. Thank you for posting.
I have been a mechanic all my life and agree with you almost completely, one other fact you should bring up is with a limited slip and clutches a certain low mileage a little clutch wear and they are friggan worthless!
I've ran an eaton e-locker for about 6 mo, wheeling around Wyoming and Colorado mostly. It has worked well so far, I do wish there was an audible noise for me to hear it engage/disengage. Of course you can tell by turning radius, but it's a quality of life thing.
Ran a Detroit Locker in the back of my IH Scout for many years. Occasional chirp or bang during a turn on the highway. Never made me change lanes, lol. Had a LS in the front axle. Useless in the snow and ice.
I choose Aussie automatic locker for my front because it will only lock up when in 4WD! And OX cable selectable in rear. Love em both!
Cap
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your knowledge of differentials.
Great explanation of the different types of differentials and how they operate.
I can now make an informed decision on which to buy.
I hate shooting in the dark! You don't know what your going to get and then your stuck with it! Ugh!
You did a great job thanks!
4X4 = 16 Forever feeling like a kid!
Thank you once again! 👍👍
Thanks Bleepingjeep 👍👍
Absolutely the best video explaining this shit hands down. Finally! Thank you so much. I just learned all the pieces I never could figure out about Lockers. Funny part is, I'm a wheeler to, big time. But just never could figure this all out exactly. Now I know.
I like the Ox locker with cable shift. It also comes with a plug that if the cable brakes you can manually screw in this plug to lock or unlock the diff.
thanks for the info. I have a 2000 xj, with dana 30 hp up front and Chrysler 8.25 in the rear. Based on watching your video, I am going to upgrade the rear first to a Truetrac torque sensing LSD and later, go with the cable OX locker in the front.
This video is amazing. Just learned quite a bit about my jeep. Thanks!
SPOOLS can be set up in front dana60 (F250 06) cz there is manual hub locks and the transfer case do not spin the front driveshaft while in 2wd. I do it and trust me Its a game changer for my offroad recovery tank
Have a 93 YJ with lunch box front and rear. Did it when I had a gear change and axle swap plus a few other extras. The bill at the time was over $5000. The extra $1000 would have been a bank breaker. In hind sight I wish I had put a different type of locker in the rear. All in all, I am happy with the lockers. Climbs much better. I had it on two wheels. One front, one rear with a little teeter action going on. Would have never gotten out of that with open diffs.
You need to learn how to drive it with the lunch box locker. Easy on the stupid pedal. Use highest gear possible around corners. Most important is not to get stupid in the snow. Drove it first time on road the last few weeks in the snow. Had no problems at all in 4X4. Once again, highest gear possible to keep RPM's down. This was after having them for three years. So much for man made warming, lol. I admit, I do get a little wiggle in the rear when hard shifting. Not lane changing type of wiggle, I have never done that. I also get the chirp when trying get into traffic fast. Once in a while, normally in a parking lot, I get the big clunk.
Lunch box lockers are a great cheap fix and easy to install. Just make sure you have axles that can handle them. Then again, this is true of any locker you put in. Nothing like having a cereal axle on the trail, snap, crackle, pop.
Excellent explanation of this feature and the options available on the market. I would like to buy a used Jeep wrangler and with your explanation it will be a Rubicon which will have this feature already installed as I understand, being a air locker system. So very informative overview in helping me make the decision. Thanks and Be safe.
Awesome video! 👍🏻 haha i like your "dry erase board" as well
+Jacob Portner Thanks! if they had these in school, I would have paid a lot more attention!
+Tyler Bleepinjeep Haha same hear fella!
I personally have the TrueTrac dif on my 2012 JKU and with proper mud tires I am able to cross paths that other Jeeps need lockers to go through. Really impressed with their performance. Thanks for the vid, very informative again :)
Mahalo (Thank you in Hawaiian) for the informative video.. I've been leaning towards both a road and trail model limited slip Eaton type lockers for a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 5.2L gas engine... I'm inexperienced but very teachable and adaptable older fellow on a fixed income.. I love independence, mobility and doing most everything myself with what I have available.. I have to acquire the vehicle first then make the final repair modifications myself.. Keep me in mind... ALOHA Brah
My favorite Jeep channel
Got a 96 xj setup real nice, would highly recommend if your running 33’s
Gears: 4.10
Front Axles Dana 30 HP 30 Spline Chromolly
Rear Axles Chrysler 8.25 29 Spline Yukon
Rear Locker: Eaton Detroit True Trac LSD
Front Locker: Eaton E-Locke
This is the best overview I have seen. Very helpful.
Simple and clear ,made it easy for me thanks man
Brilliant run-down. Thanks for that!
I have seen Hub lockers in Australia.
Also the Rubicon has 'Brake lock diffs'
which are a great help.
planning to put spartan in the front (Dana30) in combination with free wheel hubs.I drive a lot in the snow/black ice.
would love to see the vari-lock added to the limited slip. works great on light wheeling and harsh weather
Very, very good job of explaining everything 👍
17:41 A selectable locker literally does give you the 'BEST' of both worlds. It's open for optimum on road manners, and controllability, and it's fully locked giving you 4wd on demand in 'all' conditions, and also it's 'selectable' so you can even chose when all this happens... what more could a man want?
Nice and clean English - for me (I'm from Poland), I can understand every sentence. Thanks!
What kind of locker is a "spline locker"?
Absolutely the best video and explanation all these type of walkers well done.
An excellent description for the buyer. Thank you.
I love how wholesome this is
Thanks for the information Tyler. Never knew what "locker" meant
great video I've got a new locker in the back of the Fj night and day difference when off road
The Eaton in my truck became a one legger to quickly for the price I paid for it and the installation.. I would never run a limited slip on anything I own as they become a open differential the minute you need them.
Torsen torque sensing diffs are great, but not in reverse. Put one in my excursion, rarely need 4wd, front axle ARB. Pricey, but worth it
0:05 Yes that looked heavy. Amazing how parts are so heavy and so many of them, like tat locker, alternator, starter, battery, etc and the auto makes moving it and accelerating seem easy.
Very informative video. Thanks for explaining the pros and cons of the various options in detail.
clutches in an LSD do in fact lock up however they do wear out which requires maintenance depending on how much abuse the receive! a torsen lsd has no clutches to wear out but if one wheel is in the air it acts as an open LSD, you are required to apply the brake lightly in this situation for it to work Im looking at a cable OX, excellent design and simplicity!
The best explanation, thanks for taking the time
Your the only normal bleeping jeep guy lol
He did use he’s Jeep as a whiteboard, 😂
thank you so much. so informative. I still don't know what I want but I feel I have all the info now. except, what happens to the tru trac when one wheel is in the air?
pablo diablo If your vehicle has brake traction control it will ad torque to the system by braking the spinning wheel and locking the differential. If you don't you just touch the brakes and the torque from the spinning wheel locks the differential.
Sir, this explanation was awesome! Thank you!!
You mentioned Torsen differentials, but have you known anyone to install them into their Jeeps?