I just finished the installation of a front auto-locker in my Sahara D30. The brand was a Lokka but the installation would be similar for any auto locker. I won't bore you with the tire and axle removals. Did the U-joints at the same time.



Here it is with the diff cover removed and bearing caps neatly placed on a piece of cardboard so I would remember which one went where.



The pry bar trick did not work for removing the carrier. The thrust washers were in TIGHT! Thankfully two ratchets straps hooked up to the front bumper were able to pull it out. Ratchet straps, is there anything they cannot do?



Here is the carrier and all the bits and pieces laid out.



Followed the manufacturer's instructions for assembly of the locker in the carrier.



Darned springs - at least I did not lose any!

 

getting close - I could smell success!



And there it is! I won't bore you with filling it with diff oil etc. and replacing axles and brakes and wheels.

First impressions - in 2wd, very little noice, a bit tighter steering (wants to go straight). Can't wait to get it offroad to really test it out!

 

Did you just put everything back the way it was? It went back easily?

 

I had to tap in the carrier and thrust washers since I didn't have a case spreader. Otherwise it was fine. I made sure that the bearing caps were the same side and direction that I took them off.

 

What gear ratio do you have? Just wondering

 

Just the stock 3.21 gears

 

So this is pretty much a Detroit locker yes? I am anxiously awaiting the test to see if I should do this on the Sahara as well. I was considering arb's but this may be a much better option.

 

No it's not a Detroit. It is what some call a lunchbox locker. It sits inside the carrier and replaces the spider gears. A Detroit replaces the entire carrier. I ran it offroad this week and the difference is amazing. Where I used to slip until the brake lock differential kicked in, it just seemed to grab and I crawled right up. A selectable like the ARB is obviously better if you want to spend the money, but once it is locked there is no difference. It is onroad where the lunchbox might require some compromise.

 

hmmmm... The rig is my wife's this is a great idea for sand crawling though, considering that all she really wants to do with it.... I'll have to put some more thought into it. Thanks for the info! You think the d30 will hold up to it's use pretty well?

 

The D30 should be fine. Some say it actually makes the overall axle stronger because the load is always split between both axles. We'll see I guess. Also, this will be my first winter with it. I wanted to see how bad it actually is on ice and snow in 4wd. Some say it is horrible and some say it's fine. I need to decide for myself.