Hey guys,

I got a 2011 Ranger (yeah, with the front D35 SLA (aka modified), with 4.10 gears (open) and 4.0L

Now, before y'all get your panties up in a bunch, I,ve read all over the internets, and cannot quite find a satisfying answer and/or review.

So, here it is, I want to put a Powertrax lock right in the front of my truck, will it be a hassle when not in 4x4 (high or low) ?

Thanks guys!

 

I have an open axle in the front so I can't answer from experience. However, since there is no power to the differential in 2WD, there should be no ill effects.

I am installing a Torsen in the front and am told the steering could be a little stiffer but once use to it, no problem.

 

Gary, you oar correct in 2wd a locker or limited slip is unnoticable but in 4wd the steering is heavier but by no means unmanageable.

there is no automatic locker (powertrac/aussie/noslip) available any more for the front of our trucks. currently the only available traction adder is the Torsen limited slip (I have one its fantastic)

Aussie used to make one for our trucks that a few members have but they are nearly imposible to find any more.

 

I believe the Lock-Right is still in production. I couldn't see spending almost double for the Torsen so I went with a lock-right model 2311LR and will be installing this week. Have the brown wire mod done so I'm hoping it doesn't affect steering too much with the switch off.

 

Looking at the pn it may work, our diffs are non c clip though so that may take some customization.

You are correct if you have the BWM (explorer? Auto 4wd) the traction adder will have no steering effect in 2wd as it's getting no power. The ls or locker will ratchet or free spin.

 

Just an update. Installed the locker last weekend and it was cake. Still have a couple seals to replace, put the diff back under and top with fluid.

 

Did you have any trouble setting back lash

 

I don't think setting the back lash is required when installing a lock-rite locker unless it was out of spec before taking it apart. As I understand it the ring gear or pinion do not have to be disassembled. That is one of the advantages of that locker.

 

Ring gear has to come out but not pinion so no backlash changes.

 

Locker install finished and tested. Definitely steers a little different now. I'm assuming it's because the front drive train turns all the time so it has a little pressure on it. If you had lockout hubs I'd say you wouldn't notice any difference. Good for a play toy but wouldn't recommend it for a daily driver.

 

I can tell you the Torsen up front has no effect on the steering when in 2WD. I don't know about 4WD yet. I am sure there will be some effect.

A locker will certainly be better for traction off-road.