Diff Locks - Manual or auto in front ??

Hi Mick n Sal
4wd Monthly did the comparo on the air locker v detroit v traction control v open diff. Issue 53 (latest ). Thought it may help.

Basicly its a price thing , the best one is the air locker but will cost more.

I've got lock rights front and rear,

saved a bucket, and guess what, they lock the diff.

But i didn't get funky stickers to show off to my mates.....

What I'm really trying to find out is can you steer with a front air locker engaged? What negative traits does a vehicle with a front Lokka ( auto ) inherit?

Steering is a little tougher when the hubs are engaged, that sometimes means three point turns, or taking it out of 4wd. But at least you can turn. I have never been placed in a situation that the increased turning circle has led to a problem, but have climbed many a loose and windy track where the ability to steer and drive the wheels has been an advantage.

If you fit air lockers to your front end, they drive both wheels the same and cornering/steering becomes difficult. If you fit an auto lokka, not the ones in the 4WD mag note, like that offered by 4WD Systems, the lock effect is only felt when you lock the hubs and the units still allow differential action. That is, you diff still works and cornering is brilliant.

The effect, or difference, is dramatic with the front end done. The most visible changes to the driving ability are that the steering centres very quickly and the feel of the drive from the front end seems more positive. I've not noticed any substantial increase in turing circle - but after all the troopy has a big one anyway. No change at all with the hubs unlocked.

Air lockers cost more and seem to be the best to those who have them fitted. IMHO, the auto lokka is better value for money and allows more control (ie safety) while driving as you can remain locked during cornering and going downhill.Chris
<- 1996 Troopy, the best!

I have the Lokkas on the back. Great! I can go places in 2wd I couldn't in 4wd before fitted. I intend to get LSD for front. I don't believe that the air lockers are better from my research. They get you a compressor in the deal though. You need to muck around engaging them. I have heard from others about steering problems if still engaged. Royce www.funshow.com.au