Aussie Locker
I'm thinking of installing an Aussie auto-locker in my stock '98 TJ.
My plan is to install it in the front diff (Dana 30), so it will only be in use when I select 4wd. I don't plan to do any heavy off-roading but want the added traction that a locker provides when plowing through deeper snow in the city and the occasional mud hole on trails. I figure this arrangment would be the best compromise for handling and traction. Any comments or suggestions? |
Re: Aussie Locker
You should get some interesting replies to your questions. Here's one I actually found someone else posted back in 2002 but still applies today to this question: "If you do much driving in snow, I wouldn't recommend an auto locker up front. The steering is very squirly.
The advantages of an auto locker up front is they are cheaper and easier to install. You don't have to plumb your diff, run air lines, wires, etc. etc. The disadvantages are add'l stress on the drive line (when locker not needed), increased turning radius, and driving in snow and ice". |
Re: Aussie Locker
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Re: Aussie Locker
Originally Posted by Mr White
(Post 553172)
You should get some interesting replies to your questions. Here's one I actually found someone else posted back in 2002 but still applies today to this question: "If you do much driving in snow, I wouldn't recommend an auto locker up front. The steering is very squirly.
The advantages of an auto locker up front is they are cheaper and easier to install. You don't have to plumb your diff, run air lines, wires, etc. etc. The disadvantages are add'l stress on the drive line (when locker not needed), increased turning radius, and driving in snow and ice". Yes, I am aware of the snow/ice situation with regard to driving with a locker up front. For that reason I don't plan on "driving" with the locker engaged on icy roads, rather only using it to get me out of situations that would have me stuck while using two wheel drive (rear). The front locker disengages when torque is removed and also when the vehicle is taken out of 4wd. |
Re: Aussie Locker
The locker has arrived in the post, box is smaller than I had expected. Instructions a very thorough. The material these units are made from is incredibly dense and heavy, must be depleted uranium (lol). They look like they will stand up as advertised.
Will post up how they perform once I installl and test them. |
Re: Aussie Locker
Yes keep us posted on the outcome, would like to know how it handles in snow/wet and greasy roads. Did you pick it up thur the usa or some Cdn 4by4 store? If not being to nosy what is the cost?
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Re: Aussie Locker
Originally Posted by Mr White
(Post 553221)
Yes keep us posted on the outcome, would like to know how it handles in snow/wet and greasy roads. Did you pick it up thur the usa or some Cdn 4by4 store? If not being to nosy what is the cost?
Free shipping and no PST. Cheaper in the U.S. but then you have shipping across the border. |
Re: Aussie Locker
Probably close to $75 cheaper but you really don't need the bs that may come by the border, and if there is something wrong with it, dealing with a Cdn company is allot better.
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Re: Aussie Locker
Interested to hear the outcome too, keep us informed.
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Re: Aussie Locker
Well, I finally got the Aussie Locker installed and tested and all I can say is WOW!!!
Its installed in the front diff because when 4x4 is called upon the front end has the weight advantage, so those wheels will deliver the most solid traction. Also, I'm running a new set of Michelin X-Ice winter tires. I was worried that I might lose steering control on ice and snow, especially with uneven and crowned roads. I NEED NOT HAVE WORRIED! I just finished running all over town on the worst iced up and rutted roads in the country, right here in Moose Jaw. This place is a disgrace with regard to snow clearing but it proved a boon in this case. I tried, timidly at first, every possible combination of power application, steering, braking, engaging and disengaging, crossing big deep ice ruts back and forth, climbing icy slopes, etc. This locker works great and almost entirely seamless.. The only difference I noticed is the steering effort is slightly heavier when both front wheels are locked. Bottom line, the Aussie Locker is a fantastic addition and I really wish I had installed it before winter arrived. I'm having a ball with my little "tank" . |
Re: Aussie Locker
Glad its working as you wanted and thanks for the update
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Re: Aussie Locker
Think im gonna try aussies front and rear this summer and paul is correct these roads in Moose Jaw do suck lol!!!
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Re: Aussie Locker
I would also look in to the Spartan Locker from Yukon Gear. All the Spartan's I've sold people are extremely please with the product. The design is a based on the LockRight/Aussie lockers but with a few tweeks,
Check out links below. Details from Randy's Pirate post Comparison Available at PJF4x4......... |
Re: Aussie Locker
Well, I've put a full summer plus nearly another winter on my Aussie Locker and I'm every bit as pleased with its performance as when it was first installed.
It works great in the mud, I love mudding in 2wd till I'm stuck and then pulling the lever and letting the Jeep just chew through and ahead. Works super in the snow, absolutely no crazy handling as many people had predicted. In fact, the Jeep tracks beautifully through the heavy crud with the locker engaged. Getting rolling at icy intersections, even on an uphill grade is a cinch. The Aussie is still nice and quiet, just a faint ratchet sound when make tight turns in the parking lot. I just can't emphasize enough the advantage of putting an Aussie in the front and taking advantage of the weight on that axle. I'm driving a little tank now! One thing is for certain, this is a well made product, no question about it...a solid buy. |
Re: Aussie Locker
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