I will be installing a Detroit Locker in the rear diff. of my Excursion for better traction off road. I would really like to have true 4x4 and don't like the air lockers, cable operated lockers, etc. as much as the Detroit Lockers. The simplicity of the unit attracts me. How bad will be the on road performance with a front unit installed? Thank you in advance for any advice!
2007-10-25 07:11:51 · 4 answers · asked by templar 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
p.s. I have front locking hubs.
2007-10-25 07:18:53 · update #1
As long as your hubs are unlocked you won't feel any difference on the street.
Off road you'll notice a difference...it'll be harder to steer and it'll always want to go straight. Some people with front lockers unlock one hub when max traction isn't needed, just so it'll go around curves or if they're trying to get the truck turned around.
I have a lock-right in the rear axle and an open front diff and I really like that combo. It doesn't have as much traction as both locked axles, but I think it's a nice compromise....I can still turn tight corners without having to get out an unlock a hub.
Another drawback of a front locker is the increased probability of breakage. A front axle is weaker than a rear axle due to the U-joints at the wheels. They are weakest when the front tires are turned to either side. If you're in a tricky spot and one front tire has a lot of traction, the locker will just keep torqueing that tire until either the truck moves, the tire slips, or the U-joint or axleshaft breaks. With an open diff, the power is split equally between the axleshafts and it's not as likely that you'll break something.
A lot of people run Detroits in the front...it's not taboo. You just have to know what to expect.
2007-10-25 08:20:33 · answer #1 · answered by Eric P 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Detroit Diff Locker
2016-12-12 14:30:20 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes there is. It will be very hard to steer on the street. You'll have to make really wide turns. Tight turns are over with from now on, forget about getting a Detroit locker, get a Power Trax it will let front drive wheels free spin when not under load.
2007-10-25 07:26:50 · answer #3 · answered by jumbobret 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
as long as the hubs are unlocked you will not know it is in there..they work well , but a little jerky ..i like a clutch and spring type posi better.it is just a little smoother.. but can't really knock the locker..
you can turn with it just fine it's not like it's a spool !
2007-10-25 07:29:28 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋