Greetings JKU,

As far as swapping goes I believe it is pretty straight forward. What has peaked my curiosity is how simple can getting the Locker to work through the OEM switch panel be? I searched a while and get answers, just not specific to my question of using the set up I have. I am fortunate enough to have the OEM OFFROAD panel on the left side of my dash as my 75th JKU came with a rear installed locker as part of its options.

I know getting the front to work is straight forward as wiring a switch. However I'd like to utilize what I have. From what I can tell it is the same switch used for the FRONT/REAR lockers in the RUBICON. Anyone know if I am already pre-wired for a front? I haven't taken the time to pull the switch and track wires but it is something I am keen on finding out. If anything I am sure there is a Harness I can purchase to complete the wiring should I eventually go the route of a front D-44 with OEM locker.

Finding a pulled front D-44 with a Locker seems pretty easy so I do have that going for me.




Thanks in advance

Cheers,

Nem

 

I don't really keep up with the "new" things in models over the years, primarily cuz I got what I got and I find it easier to not want things if I don't look at em. I wasn't aware they put a rear locker in that anniversary model.....pretty interesting. They should have just gone the full way and done the front as well. You're in a bit of a unique spot cuz most people trying to do what you want doing have the offroad module with one locker there already it seems. Also though, I can't say I've noticed anyone in your situation with just the rear locker like that, so it might be harder to get someone with direct experience to chime in.

I'd pull the side of cover of the dash which I would think is going to give you a clear shot of the back of the module. It's kinda hard to imagine that they created a whole new wire loom for a few jeeps, and that they probably just used the rubicon wire loom maybe. I'm curious to see if that extra plug is there or not. I can appreciate wanting to keep a factory look with button funcationality. It's often bit trickier, though not impossible.

 

Heya Resharp,

Thanks for chiming in. I suspected this kind of feedback. While I am half way there it seems it might be more difficult... as you mentioned to keep it factory. Wouldn't it be cool if it were as simple is plugging it in though

I am a ways off from even getting a D44 but it was something I was considering since the day I bought this 2017. As all things are the dealer I grabbed this from now has a 2015 Rubicon with a bit higher miles but the cost is the same. Happens every time but I would have grabbed the Rubicon first.

 

If you are pre-wired fully, you should see a plug type connector somewhere in the harness down near the front axle housing.
That would plug in the back side of the housing.

The interior switch looks exactly the same as a standard rubicon switch, having the ridge on the top makes me think it would support a front electronic locker.
Curious also if you have the dash lights indicating the front locker is engaged, like your rear does now.
Sometimes you can see those led's not lit on the dash, in the right light if that makes any sense.

 

Here is what I've learned in the past 15 mins.

I do have both Front and Rear locker indicators on the dash. The switch though functions like a toggle. Hit the bottom and the rear indicator begins to flash. Set in 4wd and it turns on solid. Doesn't come off until I press the top portion of the switch though. Not sure if that is how the Rubicon switches work though?

I jumped underneath but didn't see any dead give away plug connectors hiding out. It does look like there are places that sell the Rubicon front locker harness that connects to the locker and back to I assume the switch module? Said harness has a plug that goes into the diff, and the other end however is just two cut wires.

I'll keep researching as now my interested is really peaked.

Thanks go4Lo

 

You bet!

I also found this info:

Mopar is currently retailing a simple wiring harness designed to activate the JK electric locking differential.
The part number is P5155359

edit: I see you already found that!

 

I didn't have a Mopar part number so thank you for this.

Excuse my ignorance but this harness just simply plugs into the diff and the two black/red wires are then wired to a switch? Presumably the switch I currently have if possible.

This is making me want to really look for D44 take offs.

 

Correct. That's all it is.

 

Well I looked around underneath and can't find any possible connection. What I have found though is there are TWO locker Relays under the hood. Both clearly have wiring to them. Lots of crap below it so I'll have to dig in and remove some things to really see what's going on. Good news is I am doing Synper Fenders here in the next few days and will have the inner liner out which should open things up for a good visual. The relay's are just behind the battery on the passenger side. Assuming where I got my info is correct (JKF)... most likely spot on.

Here is a quick shot of the relays:




For good measure this is the backside of the OFFROAD switch module. I was able to locate version of this for sale online but they were all for the Rubicon with sway disconnect.

 

Speaking from experience -

Factory switches only play well with factory components.

You CAN do work-arounds - but realize you will have to use some factory wiring / connectors / solinoids etc. to turn on and/or trigger whatever mod you are trying to accomplish.

I know the instinct is to want to use the factory switches on the dash, but you may want to consider using a completely parallel system instead (ie. SPod) - it will make your mod wayyyyy easier.

Hopefully you can lay your hands on all the necessary Mopar parts to get the job done ....