I am just planning my next upgrade, and I am a little confused about what would make someone chose a differential cover (like the ARB ones) versus a differential "glider" (I think Rancho makes one).

Perhaps I am underestimating how strong those ARB covers are, but it would seem that something like a glider would protect the differential more. But at the same time it seem everyone is running the ARB (and others) covers, so it would appear that would be the way to go.

What are you guys general thoughts on the matter? The price between the two items in only $10 or $20 dollars, so there isn't even a large monetary reason for one over the other.

 

The ARB's are cast-iron. They're strong enough to withstand anything that you're going to throw at them. With the "gliders", you ultimately lose ground clearance. That's why many people choose not to run them.

 

I thought the "gliders" looked a little low hanging. I think you helped make up my mind for me... when it comes time to upgrade again I'm going with the ARB covers.

Thanks

 

All of the quality covers I've seen (and own) use ~1" thick solid cast iron. I think my axle housing would crack before my diff cover

 

So are the Solid covers as strong as the ARB ones...? There's about a $140 difference in price for front/rear combo, so I figured there's got to be a difference.