lockers.........

[JIM S.]

OK. . here is the question, how does a locker affect turning while hauling/pulling a heavy load? I had a Detroit Locker in my toyota and loved it, BUT there was basicly no weight on the axle. what are your thoughts??

Jim

 

[Puff]

I feel like the ARB man ... just posted several responses recommending the ARB. And here I go again:



The great thing about an ARB is that you are 100% open when you are not locked, and 100% locked when you engage the locker. It's the best of both worlds.



Downside is that it's more expensive and you need an air compressor... but you can also use the compressor to air up tires.



- Don

 

[Beast2B]

Detroit locker

I recently had a Detroit locker put in my work truck (99 Ford F350 4x4 Powerjoke) and I tow a 10k Sno-Cat trailer in the mountains. I don't even notice the locker while towing. Occasionally I hear a clunk if turning real sharp, but that's VERY rare in 5000 miles.

I like the ARB for the on/off ability, but I am a little leary of losing an air line or compressor at the wrong time.

I saw an article for the new ELocker from Eaton, same principle of on/off, but they use electrons instead of air... The article says availability will begin with the GM axles, but should have good coverage by the end of the year... (current 4Wheel & Off Road magazine)

DISCLAIMER: I AM NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANYONE, ANYTHING, OR ANY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE ANYWHERE

 

[Bob Horrell]

I have a detroit locker in my truck and it tows in excess of 10K about 90% of the time. It works great. The newer versions of the detroit lockers are a lot better than the older ones I was previously experienced with. The newer ones are spring loaded which removes most of the loud banging you used to get when the teeth would engage.

Even under a load they disengage well when going around sharp curves on pavement. I get about 40K on BFG all terrain tires even while towing most of the time which indicates they are releasing well.

Back when I bought the detroit locker, it was the only locker available for a Dana 80. It is a very robust looking unit. It certainly matches the beefy look of the Dana 80 and should last at least as long.

There are many options for the Dana 70. A lot more reseach would be required here to make a wise choice. Each has its strenghs and weaknesses.

 

[JIM S.]

thanks Bob,

your post answers my question... sometime after I upgrade my trannie then I will be getting a locker Oo.

 

[Rob Thomas]

Bob, where did you get your locker and what did you pay? I've been considering a purchase.



Thanks, Rob

 

[Okie-Go]

I have the lock-right from power trax and mine was 850. Was a little more than normal cause had to take out the lsd and install an open carrier then the locker. Or so the guy said. I like it so far.

 

[Bob Horrell]

Rob, it's been so long since I bought it I can't remember how much I paid. You can get the information from the company that makes them:

Tractech, Inc.

Subsidiary of Dyneer Corporation

313-759-3850

The company used to be Detroit Automotive but changed their name in 1979. The product is called a NoSpin. They make them for many many applications including off highway heavy equipment, semis etc. They are tough.

Hope this helps.