So I've had an X on order for almost a month now, no movement from BG status (argh). Last night I found one on a dealer's lot that very nearly matches what I want. They're willing to match the price I had for the one on order. However, there's one potentially key difference: this one is lacking the limited slip diff.

Since it's seeming more and more like I will want true lockers if I get into more serious wheeling, I'm wondering how big of a deal this is. Can you add lockers on top of the limited slip diff? Is there actually an advantage to having an open diff if this is my eventual plan? (I know the Rubi's are open when not locked).

A related question: I've seen the hardware to add lockers for $800/axle ballpark -- how much work is it to put them in? Can a moderately skilled person expect to be able to do this on his own? If not, how much am I looking at in labor from a decent shop?

 

Lockers replace the limited slip portion of the rear end. This is not a do it yourself type of project. The advantage of open diff is on road manners. In very slippery conditions with lockers both tires WILL rotate period. So if you apply enough gas to spin tires both tires will spin reducing lateral stability. If you are in an area that freezes often you would be better off with a selectable locker. I got a quote in VA for 600 an axle for swapping gears. I would think it would be similar for installing lockers. You may as well swap out your gears & save the labor while you are at it

 

My local speed shop charged be 150 to install a posi and rebuild the rear end of my Mustang. I guess everything up there is more expensive. That sux having to spend the same amount you paid for the parts to have them installed.

 

Depends on what kind of locker you plan to add in the future. If you plan on adding a selectable locker (ARB, OX, ETC) or a full case traditional locker, it doesn't matter what you go with now (open or L/S). But if you plan on adding a "lunch box" style locker later (Lockright, etc), you need an open differential. They won't work in a limited slip diff without changing to an open carrier (i.e. more $$).

Hope this helps.

 

We have Brake Lock Diffs on all JK's. I have wheeled mine pretty hard and in lots of mud, and I can say without a doubt that the Brake Lock Diffs work awesome, no need for the limited slip. as far as locker go, that is up to the amount of crawling you will be doing. The Brake Lock is no joke, for real, I did not spin once or lose traction, I feel 100% confident I can go anywhere lockers would take someone with a non-JK.


just my opinion, but I wouldn't waste a ton of money on any lockers until you get the point in your wheeling, that you actually need them.