Anybody ever used this mini spool setup?

[djrmueller]

http://www.fj40minispool.com/differential-parts/lockers/fj40-mini-spool

Here's what the website says:


The FJ40 Mini Spool replaces the spider gears inside a standard open carrier and locks the right and left axle shafts together.

This FJ40 Mini Spool is a quick and simple 1 hour or less install. The FJ40 Mini Spool is an inexpensive option to a locker or to replace worn out spider gears.

Fitment- Fits from 64-90 Fj40, Fj45, FJ60 64-90 with 30 spline axles. Rear must be c-clip semi float OPEN CARRIER with 30 spline axles. Will fit older models if you change to 30 spline c-clip style axles.


Warranty- 1yr from manufactures defects.

 

[White Stripe]

Ive never heard of anybody using it. Seems like very few use a spool in general.

 

[71-CRUISER]

I ran one for a few years with my 5.0 and 38.5s. This is what it looked like when I pulled it out.

 

[dohcdelsol93]

If you are wanting a locked axle and need it on the cheap welding the gears together will accomplish the same thing.

Even damaged spiders missing teeth can be welded together for that matter

I wouldn't choose either the mini spool or the welded route for a vehicle used on the street.

 

[FluByU]

A friend had a full spool in the rear of his Jeep. It was "interesting" to drive on the street. As long as you don't mind chirping around corners and even worse driving habits that the 40 normal produces I say go for it. If you still want a predictable ride save up for a selectable locker.

 

[BC40]

^ Is a spool not predictable enough?

OP, have not used that mini-spool. Have considered using a GM 12 bolt one though since I've seen some mess when the welds let go on a welded third...

 

[FluByU]

His wasnt. It all depended on conditions; wet vs dry roads, sand, mud, etc..it behaved differently in all and toss in the amount of skinny pedal behind it. Selectable you get to determine when it acts not it deciding for you. Just my thoughts.......

 

[djrmueller]

I was leaning towards welding since my rig is mostly used for off road/wheeling purposes. I was thinking the mini spool would be a less permanent solution, but I found a front & rear end on craigslist so guess I'll be doing the weld...

 

[dohcdelsol93]

have you looked into a used Aussie locker? they pop up used on here from time to time in the 150 range.

They are "more" street friendly. Still pop and click on slow turns and on ice/snow can send you in circles if you are not expecting it to lock.

If you install one in the front i've been told for turning it's much easier to keep one front wheel unlocked.

Many people even in snowy/icey conditions run the aussie or similar locker in street vehicles.

They are not as nice as the ARB selectable locker or the illusive cable locker from down under but will be more friendly unless your rig is a trailer queen.