anyone have experience with the powertraxx lunchbox?

turbosocks · **Joined:** Thu Jan 07, 2010 1:06 pm **Posts:** 93

Hello out there.. Well I got my wheels/tires and going to install my daystar lift this weekend (i know, i know)

I am 4x2 as many of my posts have stated.. there is no way for me to trade it in for a 4x4 without losing my booty and making a lot higher payments to make up for the drop in resale value, so thats not an option.

I am stuck with the 4x2.. for at least the next few years.

One of my 'for sure' plans is a locker of some sort. I have been looking at the powertraxx lunchbox lately and seems that it may be a good fit.. I won't be looking to do much as far as 'off-roading' as i know i can't really do much, regardless of a locker.. I also don't want to spend a ton on one, but I don't want it blowing my rear end apart either..

The detroit locker is a full replacement (i believe) and I would have to have it professionally installed as i understand.. (~1000$) installed

The ARB is a little pricey for my blood and would also require professional install from what I know. (~1500$) installed

I could probably install the Powertraxx (and swap it back if need be) in a couple hours or less and it seems that the operation of it would be pretty beneficial. (~490$) installed

I have seen some comments about seeing locked RWDs go where unlocked 4x4s wouldn't, but never seen an elaboration.. anyone able to shed any light on this for me?

I also had made a thread a week or so back about a possible 4x2 to 4x4 conversion which is still a FUTURE (read: couple years) option but for now I am looking to get some capability while still 4x2. also, a locker could be utilized before and after.

A couple things that will be on my list (because I am 4x2 will be tow hooks, front and rear) and possibly some type of winch..

I'd just really like to have some fun off the road and not have just a 'grocery getter' Jeep!!

long_tall_texan · **Posted:** Tue Sep 28, 2010 4:00 pm

I too am 4x2. And from what I have read over the years, if you want a lunchbox locker, go with the Aussie Locker. But most will recommend an ARB or Detroit.

turbosocks · **Joined:** Thu Jan 07, 2010 1:06 pm **Posts:** 93

really? the aussie locker was the only one i didn't list as digger said it was BAAAAAD mama jamma and went BOOM POW.. :-)r

long_tall_texan · **Posted:** Tue Sep 28, 2010 5:08 pm

Yeah. I knew Digger had some issues with one. Not sure what happened there, but lots of positive reviews all over for them. Very little negative. I have seen a lot more negative for Powertrax. And I believe Aussie did try to make it right with Digger in the end. Just took a while to get them both on the same page.

tjkj2002 · **Posted:** Tue Sep 28, 2010 7:13 pm

To many issues with variances in the 8.25 makes a lunchbox locker not a wise choice.

Also depending on where you live a auto locker is not the best choice and being a 1 wheeled wonder will get you in just as many places as having a rear locker,your better off not even messing with one and much better off in snow/ice without a auto locker.Sure you will say he's just saying since he has 4wd,well I spent 2 winters and never engaged 4wd,one of those years I couldn't as I removed all the required hardware for 4wd and the 2nd year it just was not needed.More like I was just to lazy to get out and lock in my front hubs,never turned on the rear ARB either as it was not needed even in 2'+ deep snow.Just buy better tires and let it sink in you only have 2wd so stay out of the rough stuff and remember next time it's a Jeep and 4wd is a must as well as F/R lockers as "all 4 wheels must participate".If you still feel compelled your best bet is the Detroit TruTrac,yes will be alot more $$$ but will be the best choice over any auto locker and still be 100% streetable without ill side effects or having to change your driving style.

At The Helm · **Posted:** Wed Sep 29, 2010 1:13 pm

I have seen some comments about seeing locked RWDs go where unlocked 4x4s wouldn't, but never seen an elaboration.. anyone able to shed any light on this for me?

Can't say the above is true, but i did own a toyota prerunner with a factory elecronic rear locker. Even with the tacoma's rear end being so light, the locker did wonders for me. I get a lot of snow where i live, and my trick was to weigh down the rear, engage the locker, and air down rear tires to 20psi. Just do everything in your power not to come to a stop when uphill.

anyone have experience with the powertraxx lunchbox?

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