From reading many informative posts on this forum, I know that there is a piece of equipment called a "Locking Differential" or "Locker" that can be added to a 4x2 vehicle so that I can handle more off road situations. My question is, is there a difference between what I already have on my FJC (the RR Locking Diff) and a locking differential? Thanks for the help - as you can tell my question reveals my limited experience...
With the locking rear diff, you can go most places a stock 4x4 can go without a locker. It gives you positive traction on both rear tires. Even with 4 wheel drive one tire slipping can stop movement.
I do alot of my "4 wheeling" in 2WD with a detroit locker in the rear of my FJ40. You will be amazed at how much you can do with just the locker.
Good luck getting your feet wet, and have fun with your new toy!
Thanks guys...this is stuff a newbie needs to know before "going in". When the time comes I will have some pics & small video clips to post to the forum - hopefully something worth viewing...thanks again.
One important thing to note is that a differential is to allow the tires to travel the different speeds created between them in turns. Outside tires cover more distance.
When you lock the rear differential it is like having no differential. Therefore both tires will turn the same speed. On relatively high traction surfaces this can create driveline binding and make it much harder to steer your vehicle. Therefore a locker works best when driving straight or when one of the tires on the locked axle is in the air.
The auto LSD of your GSJ10 will help to reduce wheel spin by applying the brakes to the tire with less grip. This creates resistance and allows the other tire to start turning. This does not create the driveline binding during turns that the locker does.
