ok im sick of open diffs. off-road capabilities are so limited with them. i want to go detroit locker in the rear, maybe front also. the reason i choose detroit is because it is as simple as could be, no clutches, a lot less that can break. but i have never driven a truck with detroit lockers, and i hear mixed reviews. some people say its hard to stay in on lane with them, and they really are not street friendly. and some people say they don't have much of a problem with them- that is all with rear detroit lockers.
as far as front detroit lockers, people say its hard to turn in 4x4, and in mud the truck tends to push forward and no turn at all.
what are your experiences with them? keep in mind im in Maine and damn near six months out of the year there is snow, so traction is a must.

 

I've had Detroit Lockers before and love them. They take a little getting used to because anytime you're on the gas the rear will be locked. The only time the Detroit unlocks is when you get off the gas. All this means is that you have to get used to some tire chirping or coast around every corner. My F-250 has an open rear end and I just ordered a Detroit for it a few weeks ago.

You need to hurry though. Every place I called (at least 8) didn't have any Detroit Lockers for the 10.5". They've actually been discontinued for at least the next 6 months (according to Randy's R&P). The only place I'm aware of that has them in stock is 4wheelparts.com which is where I bought mine from. It was $680 + $80 for the lifetime warranty + shipping.

For the front you DO NOT want a locker unless it's selectable. I would also opt away from autolockers (Lock-right, no-slip, ect.) because of the shock loading and bad winter characteristics. Your selectable options for the D60 are the ARB, OX locker, and Eaton E-locker. I went with the ARB as they are proven and bulletproof. The OX locker(most expensive) is nice but the cable is a PIA to adjust and will need more adjusting thoughout the life of the locker. The Eaton E-locker which is the cheapest ($885) only has a 1 year warranty which is void if using tires larger than stock which basically makes it useless IMO. The ARB costs a little more ($1,140 w/ compressor) but they have a good warranty and excellent customer service from what I hear.

Just my .02 after going though the same thing trying to decide on lockers for my '04.

 

thanks for the info, i am definitely going with a detroit for the rear, thats more than i expected for a detroit. this may sound stupid, but every time i read up about detroit lockers i still get confused, does it completely replace your gears, or does it use your gears and just convert power to both tires at all times?

 

You still use your ring & pinion.

 

I would also recommend a selectable up front.
I have used ARB's up front in my other vehicles for years with great results.
And you can't beat the simplicity of a mechanical locker out back. You will get used to the driving habits of it very quickly.

 

Detroit in the back for sure..Nothing comes close.



Dick