When traction differentiates between tires the unit locks. This is why it can get interesting when you punch it in the middle of a corner. Also why a spool is more predictable.

 

Im planning on full spooling a 12bolt and a D44.

my last D44 lasted about 2 months spooled. then i broke an outer axles Ujoint. you know, the PS on the TTB stuff, that one. on this new D44, its a straight axle out of a chebby, im planning on full spooling it because the scout will be almost strictly off road use. and hell, its got locking hubs anyway.

Idio

 

detroit or arb, arb are a bit pricey though

 

For absolute brute strength, you can't beat a Detroit. Strong, simple, and reliable. A full carrier Detroit is stronger than a lincoln locker, just by virtue of the fact that even if you weld the spiders, you are still stuck with the stock carrier and side gears (and, depending on your welding skill, questionable welds). That is an inherent weakness (although the 8.8 is a decent axle, it's not great, and can break - I've seen it, even in Jeeps). The Detroit replaces the carrier with a much stronger unit, and so is inherently stronger. Plus you still get some differentiation, which helps, a lot. The ARB also replaces the carrier and is near bulletproof in terms of carrier strength. When unlocked, it behaves as an open carrier, giving superb on-road performance. I know lots of folks who run ARB's and they like them, but I have to say, I've never blown an air line or an O-Ring on my Detroits. But this isn't an ARB vs. Detroit debate...heh heh

There are also aftermarket spools (Strange Spools come to mind) that replace the carrier, and those are also very strong. Spooling the rear seems to be a very popular option on this board, probably mainly due to its significantly reduced cost and absolute simplicity, but in my experience, most off-roaders I know prefer lockers. California wheeling is different than midwest and East Coast wheeling, though, so different rules apply. Spools suck in rocks and tight, twisty trails, which is mostly what we have here. In mud it doesn't matter. Most mudders are spooled from what I've seen, at least in the rear. I could go on and on (and have...lol) why it's a bad idea to weld the front, but I don't think I'll convince anyone who didn't already agree, and I won't convert those that don't.

Party on, Dude!

 

mine's welded and the only time i regret it is when trying to turn when fully locked! but then i praise it when I think i just made it through that mud hole and it cost me nothing! i plan on maybe ram assist one day soon or if i can wait i will get an ARB for the front.

just my testimony!

-jason-