To lock or not to lock.

[CrustyJeep]

Does anyone have any experience running both a Detroit and an ARB (i.e. ran each in the front axle at some point). Could you tell the difference between the two? Is there a scenario where they would perform noticeably different?

I don't have experience with that exact combo, but I do with a lockrighted rear/open front, and a detroited rear/lock righted front. Keep in mind that a detroit and a lock right are virtually indistinguishable.

I also run twin-sticks, and I run rear drive only whenever possible because of the lock right. A locked front is annoying when you're just driving around.

Therefore, I think a selectable (ARB, etc.) would be optimal up front. Lock it for the twelve feet at a time you actually need it, unlock it the rest of the time.

 

[dezertdog]

Har har. I'm trying to figure out if I would be able to actually tell the difference between a spooling an non-spooling differential offroad? I've been driving lockrights for years and want to move to an ARB, but am not sure if I'd dislike the spool on a down hill or corner (dirt).

Yes. The ARB could be turned off :fawkdancesmiley:

 

[Nuzzy]

Har har. I'm trying to figure out if I would be able to actually tell the difference between a spooling an non-spooling differential offroad? I've been driving lockrights for years and want to move to an ARB, but am not sure if I'd dislike the spool on a down hill or corner (dirt).

I've driven a ARB F/R vehicle and 2 Detroit/Lockrite F/R vehicles. When engaged, the arbs felt nearly identical to the other throughout an obstacle. It was great being able to disengage the lockers for manuverablity through most of the trail only engaging when neccessary. But, we had a pin hole leak in the air line ruin one day and a leaky compressor ruin another, whereas the nonselectables always could be counted on to work no matter what. Sort of a trade off IMHO...


That being said, I see myself going to arbs again down the road