This is my first experience with a truck with a locking differential. I've had it on my tractors for many years. I understand the threat of damage if you use it on firm ground. But how susceptible to damage is it? If I'm in a spot that can use it and drop from mud, snow or ice into full traction how easy is it to really screw things up. I'm scared to death to engage it.

 

It really does HOOK-UP!

 

Don't be afraid to use it anywhere but don't try to use it on hard dry surfaces( so in other words roads) while turning.

 

Why are you "scared to death" to use a feature of your truck?

 

I used it to do a burnout once.... How bad can it be lol

 

As long as you are using it off-road in low speed situations no need to worry, that is what it is there for. Dropping from a slippery situation into better traction really shouldn't cause any issues with it. Driving with it engaged on hard surface roads would not be good. Even then it will automatically disengage over 20 (i think). Tried it one day on the driveway, well you could really tell it was engaged on pavement.

I have used it since then in several off road situations.

 

Don't worry about it, BUT... be careful not to engage the locker while one wheel is spinning.

Because the outer wheel travels further than the inner wheel, you actually have less traction when in a turn with the lock engaged. Traction is most as you approach the limit of adheasion. A slipping tire has less traction. You can note this in a turn on a paved surface with the diff locked. The inside wheel will jump as it seeks to turn the same distance as the outer wheel. And, although turning on a paved surface sounds like the truck is coming apart and isn't recommended, it won't hurt anything. Just don't make a habit of it.

If you really want to see for yourself and test the limit of traction with the diff locked, on a slippery surface like snow or ice, put the truck in a turn and give it a little throttle. The rear will kick out MUCH MORE quickly than when the diff is not locked.

I have an e-locker on an older truck and personally I'd rather have a limited slip or traction control that brakes the slipping wheel. And in WY where I live, I use 4x4 every day, winter and summer. I've only used the locker a few times, normally when pulling someone from the ditch with purchase and a straight pull.

 

Would it be appropriate to use locker on beach? How about dry loose sand vs wet solid sand near water? 4WA, 4WH, 4WL, locker? What is best in both situations?

 

Definitly use it in those conditions. Unless the sand is so hard you would have to try to get stuck on purpose. Then there really isn't a need for the locker to be engaged

 

Much thanx. Just the info I was looking for and the reason these forums are the best!