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When to use lockers?

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Old Oct 14, 2008 | 04:11 PM
  #1  
08{GA}RUBICON's Avatar
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Default When to use lockers?

I'd like to get your thoughts on when to use or not use lockers while offroading.
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Old Oct 14, 2008 | 04:23 PM
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I so far .. have only been offroad once with working lockers (twice since the new axles).

I popped it in 4L only when I needed extra extra traction on a slippy steep hill covered in mud, and towing the guy that burnt up his clutch up that same hill.
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Old Oct 14, 2008 | 04:39 PM
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Originally Posted by SONIC
Use them:
On rocks when slowly climbing.
Once you get stuck lol
Any time you think you need a little extra traction.

when NOT to use them:
Off camber on loose surface
Off camber in mud
on ice


basically any time you're off camber the lockers tend to make you slide down the hill instead of crossing it.
Perfect answer
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Old Oct 14, 2008 | 05:15 PM
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Originally Posted by SONIC
Use them:
On rocks when slowly climbing.
Once you get stuck lol
Any time you think you need a little extra traction.

when NOT to use them:
Off camber on loose surface
Off camber in mud
on ice


basically any time you're off camber the lockers tend to make you slide down the hill instead of crossing it.

Little Extra Traction - I take it that can be in many differrent circumstances!
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Old Oct 14, 2008 | 05:20 PM
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If you are coming up on a section where you don't think you can do it open, lock up the rear and give it a try. If no luck, lock up the front and try again. It helps to learn to drive better doing as much as possible without either locker.
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Old Oct 14, 2008 | 05:37 PM
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Interesting input. Keep it coming!!
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Old Oct 14, 2008 | 08:11 PM
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I would say that I agree that using the lockers should be a last resort. I think that good driving skill is far more important.

I would also say that if you are new to the game, don't ever use your locks, and learn how to keep all four wheels on the ground. It's a skill that will pay off later.
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Old Oct 14, 2008 | 09:03 PM
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yeah basically what everyone else is saying... my jeep is still open... but I have driven lockable axle vehicles...

In my jeep, and my truck before it... I always stay in 2 wheel drive until i can get no further... It really helps you get a feel for what it can do...and teaches a lot of finess... its amazing sometimes where a capable vehicle can go even before engaging the 4 wheel drive... so when I get lockers for my jeep in about 6 months (hopefully ) I will not use them until I can go no further without them.
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Old Oct 15, 2008 | 04:54 AM
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My opinion will differ from the norm apparently. I say use them whenever prudent. You have the tool and if it's the right tool for the job use it. There are certain situations where a locker isn't the right choice. And there are situations where you would want to use one or the other if you have front and rear.

I often hear the argument that you should use them when you need them. However, when you need them might be too late. Lockers can often help you avoid getting stuck, but once you're stuck they may not help at all. (Assuming that in a bad situation you can get them engaged.)

We can wax philosophical all day, but at the end ask yourself, "what happens if I get stuck here?" Make your decision on whether or not to use the locker based on the situation and not any idealogy.
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Old Oct 15, 2008 | 10:25 AM
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Has anyone been using lockers and broke something that they might not have broke if they were not using them?
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