Has anyone installed an after-market locking differential in a 4x2 vehicle? Which ones are best? I am aware of the Powertrax and Tractech EZ locker, and they seem reasonably priced.

It would be great to hear how hard the install was and how the locker performs.

Hi, what kind of vehicle are you looking to put one in?

_________________
Nanette

03 Freedom with some neat stuff done to it that I learned about here.

I will be installing it in a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup (4x2). The rear differential is open, so it is not very useful when I drive off-road. I only drive on dirt roads and fields so I am not doing any extreme off-roading. This winter I was trying to go up a steep incline on a paved road and half the lane was a sheet of ice, while the other half was dry as a bone. One wheel just kept spinning and I was unable to make it up. I am hoping a locking differential will solve this problem.

It will help big time! Go for it!

_________________
99 TJ
71 C101
04 KJ
03 SFA KJ Sport
LOST JEEPS So-Cal

What rear axle did they put in your dodge? D44, D60 or is it a corporate? Powertrax lock-rite and no-slip are fine and work well from what I've seen and read, but if you're looking for something a little cheaper but works as well or better than Powertrax's stuff, I'd suggest looking into getting an Aussie locker. It cost me less than the Powertrax no-slip, and they're a breeze to install! I wrote a tech write-up on how to install an Aussie Locker (Very similar installation to the Powertrax) if you'd like to view it and see what is involved in installing a lunchbox locker.

I have the Chrysler Corporate 9.25" rear axle. The Powertrax, Detroit EZ and Aussie all look to be essentially the same unit. It is hard to tell how they are different. The Aussie is the cheapest ($220), Detroit EZ ($260) and the Powertrax ($420).

What Amsoil oil do you recommend for the rear differential? Severe Gear 75W-90 seems to be the recommended one. Will I need to add any additive?

Well, I ordered the Detroit EZ locker. But when I tried to install it it was too small. I called the manufacturer and they said they do not make one for the rear axle in my Dodge, only the front axle. Aussie locker had the same response, only the front axle. Powertrax made one for the rear axle and the install went fine. I get a little chirping around curves once in a while, but 99% of the time you would not even know its in there. I have not tried it out yet in slippery conditions, but it should be a vast improvement to my 4x2.

Ah, good ol chirpping! Now go find some slippery stuff and give us an update on your happiness!

_________________
Nanette

03 Freedom with some neat stuff done to it that I learned about here.