paul246

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?

Mr White

iTrader: (1)

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".

Mr White

iTrader: (1)

Removed duplicated

paul246

Thanks for the reply.

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.

paul246

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.

Mr White

iTrader: (1)

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?

paul246

Got it from here http://www.northridge4x4.ca/proddetail.php?prod=AL-XD-13027

Free shipping and no PST.

Cheaper in the U.S. but then you have shipping across the border.

Mr White

iTrader: (1)

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.

04WJGuy

Interested to hear the outcome too, keep us informed.

paul246

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" .