Calgary Jeep Association

4x4 Related Groups => Tech Talk => Topic started by: Canuck Bob on October 15, 2008, 01:06:03 PM

Title: Auto locker up front, winter driving?
Post by: Canuck Bob on October 15, 2008, 01:06:03 PM: I was wondering if those who have actually driven a TJ with an auto front locker could answer a quick question? Please be aware that I have searched this extensively and understand the full implications of an auto locker while in 4wd. I've found that a number of people who actually drive in winter conditions with a front auto locker often have no complaints and recommend the upgrade.

How did your Jeep drive with the front locker in 4wd during the winter? Of course, I drive 2wd most of the time and have the Dana 44 Traclok for a rear diff..

How did your Jeep drive with the locker in 2wd during the winter?

Thanks
Bob
Title: Re: Auto locker up front, winter driving?
Post by: XJwrencher on October 15, 2008, 05:49:14 PM: Cant even notice it in 2wd other than noise in tight turns but its typical "lunchbox" noise.
Title: Re: Auto locker up front, winter driving?
Post by: Canuck Bob on October 16, 2008, 06:09:16 PM: Quick bump for a second try.
Thanks
Title: Re: Auto locker up front, winter driving?
Post by: dac on October 16, 2008, 07:49:42 PM: Would it be safe to assume they'd respond the same way as say a detroit, ie not good for daily driver?
Title: Re: Auto locker up front, winter driving?
Post by: cablesmurf on October 19, 2008, 08:50:56 AM: Fine in 2wd...but it renders your 4wd useless in the city. In 4wd and winter streets, you can't turn...your jeep will keep going straight if you are on the throttle slightest bit. Not safe IMHO. Now, I know what you are thinking...I'll just stay off the throttle around corners..but It doesn't always work out that way.
Title: Re: Auto locker up front, winter driving?
Post by: HeadHunter on October 19, 2008, 01:48:43 PM: Quote from: cablesmurf on October 19, 2008, 08:50:56 AM
Fine in 2wd...but it renders your 4wd useless in the city. In 4wd and winter streets, you can't turn...your jeep will keep going straight if you are on the throttle slightest bit. Not safe IMHO. Now, I know what you are thinking...I'll just stay off the throttle around corners..but It doesn't always work out that way.

I run an open front and have an auto locker rear I installed right before winter ended last year. We got one LARGE dump in town before spring hit so I took it out on the un-plowed streets for a test run... 6" of snow at least and the Jeep just went straight even from a dead stop.... well it pushed straight and made for a extremely wide semi-truck turn... I plan on putting in a selectable front locker for this very reason or else I'd go with another auto locker up front cause they're cheap and they work awesome.
Title: Re: Auto locker up front, winter driving?
Post by: rws on October 20, 2008, 08:43:42 AM: I have auto lockers in both front and rear of my jeep. Works great for deep snow but for an icy street it is not safe.