POPO AGIE
SILVER Star
Thanks for the information.Back in the early 90's I installed a L/R in the rear, it was great. Then the next logical step was put 1 in the frt too. I figured I could just engage 4wd/2wd when I needed it. I altered the shift gate for 2wd low. That was a PITA, shifting back and forth all the time. I had power steering, over time when wheeling w/the frt end locked and engaged you could slightly feel it binding up the more and more you turned it on the trail. I could here the P/S pump working harder. No P/S is extremely difficult to get it to turn a little bit. A frt locker will put extreme stress on your stk birfields, if you do anything moderately difficult you have a good chance of breaking a stk birf. Don't turn the wheels and backup. I quickly determined I didn't like the frt end locked all the time. I used to compete in obstacle courses. When locked, it pushes in the turns, cornering sucks. This was a time where Marlin was experimenting with Marfields with no success. I ended up narrowing a dana 44 and went ARB in the frt. Use it when you need it. I'd recommend an ARB or selectable locker in the frt and alloy axles/birfields. Then consider upgrading to big pattern knuckles with hardened studs.
I have already pulled the stock birfields and will replace with upgraded shafts that will have 30 splines at the birfield race. I am thinking to just leave the front open and not spend the money for an air or electric locker.