AirLock - rear or front ?

I am sorry - I didn't read the archieves first.
The similar problem was discussed in a thread:3920

But this thread brings another question - it looks like ARB didn't tell me the whole truth. My own experience is that the front axle needs more traction - but consultants at ARB were very confident and they convinced me that that the rear axle is the best place. Now I am totally confused.

I think there is a little bit of tounge in cheek there from ARB, yes it may wear out but it will take a lot of 4WD'ing to do it.

And yes it is better to have a diff lock in the rear. If your happy with the LSD, why not put the Diff Lock in the front, and when the LSD does finally wear out stick a Diff Lock in the rear.

Search the Archives, been done 203948023948203948029384029384023948 times before.

everyoen has different opinions.

Dmitri,

I put my ARB locker on the front, taking the approach that when the rear LSD wears I will add an ARB locker to the rear.
My GU has now done 155000kms and no signs of the LSD wearing...!
I recommend the locker on the front, the combination of the good LSD in the rear and a good air locker in the front makes an excellent compromise!!
Works well for me....

I also have a friend with a GQ, he has over 300000kms on his and the LSD is still strong too....
And the LSD works!

Will

Thanks guys, for the replies!

Actually, I've spoken with one big boss from ARB (who actually gave me a very attractive quote for the mods at the 4x4 show) and he told me the absolutely different things - to keep the LSD which is one of the best on the market and go for a front locker.

I understand that it is not a simple yes-no question, but I've heard some good arguments which help me to make a decision.

Dmitri.

Most people who reccommend diff locks on the rear (unless they are into serious competition) usually dont actually own a patrol.!!!

We have had exactly the same reccommendations from the ARB reps - however they are into competions and making a sale.
The GU LSD takes a lot to stop. Ive got some interesting video of just how much it takes to stop both rear wheels spinning (and they are smoother than a difflock so may have advantages is soft gravelly slopes in reducing slippage)

Personally Id never bother with a rear locker for a GU.

Check out the previous posts, get a front locker first, and get used to dropping your tyre pressures and if you find that you are still getting stuck on a regular basis then think about the rear locker.

I assume you are into challenging the vehicle on a regular basis or planning a remote trip.
They are great piece of mind and make many things easier but good technique and clever use of tyre pressures will leave some wondering why they spent the money for the number of times they are really needed.

hope this perspective adds some clarity,

Kes

G'day Dmitri,
I've got a 2000 gu 85,000 kmsMore drive'n less talk'n

The patrol LSD is bullet proof !! Put a locker in the front and you can't go wrong. One person I know installed 2 lockers, did a trip then pulled the rear out. The LSD was better

Ask anyone who actually knows what they are talking about....The Nissan LSD is the TOUGHEST in the market!!!!!!If there is nothing wrong with it why relace it, put the locker where you need it, the front! Doing that alone will Double your traction!

A locker in the front of your vehicle (being a patrol) is the most awsome traction modification you can do.... The one place a front locker stands out is climbing big rocks.... With a rear locker you will have the ability to spin the wheels trying to climb onto the rocks where as a front locker will just climb on up and over.... If you owned a Toyota i would have said you need both....
I own an 80 series and a GQ so my comment is not bias....