As a newbie, I was wondering if someone could explain when lockers are needed and when front only or front and rear lockers are needed. Thanks!

 

They are used anytime you need maximum traction. Typically during steep climbs, crossing very soft material, or when crawling thru rock gardens. I only use them when I am going into a tough spot and shut them off when I get thru it.

Most of the time you should use front and rear. If steering critical you may not use the front since it will be harder to turn the wheel when locked. You may want to use front only if you are trying to get the rear to slide around an obstacle.

 

^^ Pretty much what he said. Another rule of thumb is if you don't really feel like you're in complete control with 4low(which you should be in most of your time offroad btw. Leave 4HI for snowy roads in the winter), or if you're on a technical section where staying on your line is important aka rock gardens, steep climbs ect.

 

Yep also lock up before you get into your obstacle. And unlock when you're through it.

 

When the front is locked,avoid tire spin here.Damage can occur

 

I always try anything first before I lock up. Idk I kinda like the challenge.

 

X2 this is what i do

 

You guys are the best thank you! Examples you all provided were really helpful. Also, very interesting about tire spin. Soft or loose material would seem to put you in a wheel spin situation more often than not, no? I assume it means don't "sit and spin" with lockers engaged.

 

Sitting and spinning is fine. It's when one of those spinning tires finds a rock for some sudden traction and something goes snap. In general, you should always try to crawl things when you can. You'll be suprised how effortless some things can be with the right line But yeah you should avoid sitting and spinning

 

I think you got good answers so far. I'd like to add:

The way differentials are made, if one front wheel looses traction, the other one will not pull either. The same with the rear wheels.

When locked, both wheels will pull equally. Lockers should be used mainly for very slippery surfaces, such as soft sand, snow or mud.
At the front, the more you turn the steering wheel, the harder the locker strains the steering system, in some cases to the degree of breaking something -- unless the surface is very slippery. Even then, I'd rather not turn the steering wheel all the way, if possible.

Most offroad drivers indeed use lockers only when it's the only option, and disengage ASAP.