Lockers?

Buliwyf

Viking with a Hammer
Just because a KJ isn't a rockcrawler deosn't mean that a locker can be handy on muddy roads, soft muddy grass etc.etc.

I use Detroit lockers in the rear that way I can get use from my locker every single day, snow, dirt, mud, gravel, pavement, grass. I'm not paying $1000+ for a selectable locker I'll only get to use once or twice, I want something that'll be there when I need it in a split second all the time without hampering me on grippy trails.

But a Detroit or Yukon Locker isn't the choice for a short wheelbase KJ that sees much snow unless you have some less aggressive winter tires.

So overall, I'd also skip it and stick with what you have, and put a Warn M8000 up front.
 

Bergum

Adventurer
I have a short wheelbase, a lwb suzuki samurai.
Doing an automatic locker in the winter is funny. It's funny how easy it is to spinn out of the road.
I want to know when my wheels are locked or not..

B4x4.no
 

762X39

Explorer
I am a big fan of selectable lockers and can't think of a better investment. Once you have one you'll wonder how you got along without one before (oh , yeah, a shovel, leather boots and a bit of work). Really though, a selectable locker is a great way to go (and solves the problems created by a full time locker, the best of both worlds). A winch is fun but my opinion is a locker first, it will see more use (a few seconds here and a few seconds there to help you on your way). You seem to have made the most of your Liberty and this is a good way to improve its ability in less than ideal situations.:coffee:
 

I Leak Oil

Expedition Leader
Sounds like you should keep your current setup and spend your money elsewhere. Some of the items you mentioned can be transfered to a different vehicle if (and when) you decide to change. You're lockers will most likely go with the liberty and won't really add value to it when you do sell it.
Good driving technique will get you nearly as far with your current vehicle as any locker will, especially give the terrain you're planning on travelling.
 

DaJudge

Explorer
The TrueTrac is a great LS! I have one in the front axle of my XJ and it works flawlessly. I have ground my way through deep sand, up wet Granite, over ledges with very loose gravel and it has never let me down. Both wheels spinning together every time. It is a little picky about Dif fluid but if you change it regularly it will get through tough stuff. Your front axle is really your weak point at this moment but...
With the cost of upgrading the front axle I would leave it alone and get some of the other things you mentioned.
 

DorB

Adventurer
the way i see it, lockers are part of your "insurance" when going off-road, especially if you do travel solo sometimes.
lockers are not only for rock crawling, but also for that short steep loose assent or drifted trail.
 

JIMBO

Expedition Leader
:sombrero: Lockers got me up this in 4hi-(winter) and 4lo (hot summer)-no tire spin-

130.jpg


Got me up this in 4lo (lava rock)-

009.jpg


The sand mighta been possible with LSD's, but I'll stick with lockers !

:costumed-smiley-007:wings: JIMBO
 

Metcalf

Expedition Leader
Lockers just get your stuck further from home :sombrero:

For some people that is fun....for some people not so much.
 

I Leak Oil

Expedition Leader
I run ARB front and rear.

Same here. A little more $$$ than others but I've deciced it was worth it to me. For the most part I really don't use them, especially the front, all that often and can get myself into trouble just fine without them!
 

bob91yj

Resident **************
You can use the service brakes/parking brake and some two foot driving that will accomplish what a LSD will do for you in most situations. A selectable locker is the only way to go IMO. I've got Detroits in my rock Jeep, great on the trail, but miserable on the rare occasion that I drive it on the street.

When I didn't know any better I could live with the Detroit's on the street, selectable lockers in the Rubicon changed that opinion. My rear Detroit popped as I was coming to a stop one time, the lady in the car next to me almost had a coronary it was so loud. I can change lanes with the throttle with the locker releasing and engaging, and of course the parking lot tire squawk is always fun.
 

Scoutn79

Adventurer
If you can afford it I would got with selectable lockers ( I won't get into which one I will let you research that to get what fits YOUR needs not someone elses)...But get a winch first.
The best way to learn how to wheel off-road be it mud, snow, sand, rocks whathaveyou is to do it in a stock rig and learn tire placement, suspension balance and picking a good line.
IMHO lockers are an indispensable tool in the back country..especially if you travel alone.
If you travel sensibly and don't take unnecessary risks they will make your travels safer and more enjoyable and not get you into trouble (much).
Remember, lockers aren't just for rockcrawlers...(many true crawlers run spools anyway) they are a traction aiding device meaning they can be used on any uneven or slick surface....Sports cars use limited slips not so they can go off road but to aid in traction and make both wheels drive the vehicle forward....Again they are just a tool and as always it is up to you when and how you use the tool.
Darrell
 

Forum statistics

Threads
188,625
Messages
2,908,030
Members
230,800
Latest member
Mcoleman
Top