Front locker follow-up info...

[DesertSpive]

I don't think I can wait for Torsen to offer a front l/s, or for ARB to offer us a front locker. What about Eaton's new e-locker? Will they have something for our trucks? Has anyone heard?

Also, I need some follow-up info on the No-Slip for the front of our Rangers/Explorers. I know a couple people on here have one installed. How are it's manners on the street in 2Hi? And how are it's manners off-roading in 4WD? Does it engage when it is not needed? Does it bind up the front end while turning, especially sharp ones? Is it noisey, either on or off-road? Now that you have lived with it for a while, how do you like it? Would you recommend it? And what are your overall experiences or impressions.

And have we determined if anyone makes a l/s for our front end?

--Sean

 

[go off road]

Desert Spive I have a no-slip in the front and like it a lot I have not used it a lot but it works great ask me about it after Moab before you run out a buy it. In 2wd you do not know its there, in 4wd wow now this is what a 4 wheel drive is, no more "car like" 4wd. Check back with me in 3 weeks.

Wade

 

[DesertSpive]

You got it Wade. I am definately interested in its performance at Moab. Wish I could go with you guys this year, but I will definately be out there next year for sure. I shoud be a bit more Moab-ready by then.

--Sean

 

[go off road]

Sean

The front locker was awesome in Moab, it made a big differce I now can just walk up rocks with out the tires spinning so thats a good thing it will not be as hard on my truck. Driveing in 4 high or 4 low worked out great the locker would unlock and let me turn but it lets you know its there you need both hands on the wheel it is a little harder too turn but now its a true 4x4.

-Wade

 

[DesertSpive]

Wade

I have anxiously been awaiting your review. Thanks alot for remembering me. I plan on making the trip with you guys to Moab next year, so this is part of my preparation (in addition to the RCD lift, and the 33s I have on there now).

For the most part you answered my questions regarding the performance. I was mainly interested to know how smoothly it operated, and if it allowed you to turn without binding (if it unlocked) while in 4WD. You say that turning is a bit more difficult, but manageable. I am guessing that you would do this mod again if given the chance.

Looks like I am going to have to go price shopping to see what kind of deal I can get. Do you, by any chance, have the correct part number? Also, what was the labor like to install it? Obviously it won't be as straightforward as the rear diff.

--Sean

 

[Jefe]

Sean,
The Powertrax part number is: 92-0435-2702
Just so you know, I ordered mine over a month ago and still don't have it. They are 'back-ordered' for forever.

If I were to take out the front diff, install locker, and replace diff, I'm guessing it would take me 4 to 6 hours by myself. (I've taken out the front diff before to regear) I'll tell you how long it really takes me when I finally receive it.

I was also impressed with Wade's truck. He went everywhere I went on Elephant Hill in Moab. And after talking to him about what the steering was like, I'm totally sold on it. (and not only because its the only thing we can put up there )

 

[DesertSpive]

Thanks for the info Jeff. Who did you order it from, and how much? Also, I would really appricate any info you can give me on installing it.

Sounds like Wade's truck did great, I can't wait to see pics.

Wade, are you still running factory rubber?

--Sean

 

[go off road]

Yes Yes I would do it agin it was a great Mod, Jefe gave you the part #. I am running 32s BFG M/T. Now if I just had a lift!
But I think the way I am set up now is great, but haveing rock sliders is a must.

Wade

 

[DesertSpive]

Thanks for all the help Wade. And yes, sliders are on the list of upgrades. I am running the 33x10.5 A/Ts on the FX4.

--sean

 

[go off road]

nice flex lol

 

[Jefe]

Sean,
I ordered it from Summit Racing because they were the only ones who would let me order it because it is back ordered so far. The date I'm getting from them now is 7/4/02. Who knows what the heck powertrax is doing I think it was (is going to be) 399 and free shipping.

 

[Jefe]

he he. . those pics are practically identical. One suggestion for you both: Disconnect sway bars

 

[go off road]

Jefe the Rangers do not have rear swaybars on off-road's and FX4's and I have not had my front on for 6 months. your looks like you have more flex but you have a 3 inch body lift. Try calling www.Mepco4x4.com I got a great deal on my locker.

 

[DesertSpive]

Yep! No rear sway on new Rangers with the ORP or FX4 package. Still, its pretty good flex for stock. Just wait until I get my RCD and Deaver rear springs. And thanks for the shop links, I will definately check them out. If 7-4-02 is the new release date, thats okay by me. I am going to Florida on vacation in July, so I wouldn't be purchasing until after that.

I thought of another question about the front locker. What about when you are engaged in 4Hi and going down a wash, where an open front diff probably is better and allows more control. How would the Powertrax handle that situation. Being in So Cal, we encounter fast washes or sandy roads that can often be traveled at 45mph or more. I would imaging the front wheels being locked up would add a degree of difficulty to the steering, but would it be dangerous, or is it still manageable?

--Sean

 

[MH20]

Hey Sean, call Unitrax (714.630.4327) up in Anaheim.

When I was shopping around for a rear No-Slip, they had the best prices by far. The guy said they are Powertrax's largest distributor.

 

[Positive Vibes]

Some one correct me if I'm wrong but all you would have to do is turn the manual hubs off. That is if you have manual hubs.

 

[jimbo74]

derrick, that is correct (i think)

 

[Jefe]

Originally posted by DesertSpive
. . .I thought of another question about the front locker. What about when you are engaged in 4Hi and going down a wash, where an open front diff probably is better and allows more control. How would the Powertrax handle that situation. Being in So Cal, we encounter fast washes or sandy roads that can often be traveled at 45mph or more. I would imaging the front wheels being locked up would add a degree of difficulty to the steering, but would it be dangerous, or is it still manageable?

--Sean

Is it really necesary to be in 4High at 45 mph?
I would fear breaking something in the front at that speed if you went to make a turn and it locked (not to mention a total loss of control).

 

[soupbone]

another ******* diff thread

Still nothing but a powertrax huh... Im waiting for Detroit or Eaton for the rear in sept. Dont think i can deal with non selectable. however id love to test drive a rig with locked front to see.

Troy:
Hello there! How are you? Fine, I hope! The Ford 8.8 (31 tooth
spline) ELocker differential will not be available until the
September-October 2002 timeframe. Suggested Retail Pricing should fall in
the $700-$750 range.

Please contact one of our distributors listed @ www.traction.eaton.com (at
that time) for specific pricing!!

Thank you for your interest in our performance differentials and have a
blessed day!!

Wayne Brantley
Business Unit Manager
Eaton PSCO/TCPD Aftermarket

 

[go off road]

I did have mine in 4 high on the freeway going 45 in the snow it was ok. Just note: new Explorers with this locker you need to have a t-case with 2wd, 4x4 4 low, if you have a auto T-case this is not for you.