I am looking at a new Platinum 4x2...and saw Electronic locking axle as an option. How does this work and what is everyone's experience with it?

 

I have this on my '13 5.0, and it's what a lot come with instead of a limited slip. It is an open diff, that has the ability for you to lock it (both wheels turn simultaneously), which can help you get unstuck if needed. This means when it's off, it's easier to spin one wheel (like accelerating out of a turn in rain or something). I had the limited slip in my '11, and frankly like the locker option better, for my needs anyway.

You will prob get a lot of mixed responses on this, but I like the locker vs the limited slip. Has helped me out on a boat ramp twice, once in snow, and a few other minor spots.

Just my $.02!

 

The traction control kind of acts like a pseudo limited slip and the locker is a nice option. I have rarely used mine but I also have 4x4...

I think on a 4x2 truck it would be a welcome option.

 

Never thought of it that way....TC with the locker if needed.

 

I really like the electronic locker axle. It would be especially good on a 4x2. Great for maximum traction at low speeds: boat ramps... pulling up tree stumps... pulling out another vehicle stuck in snow... getting yourself unstuck from snow or mud.


My suspicion is that the posters here that are unhappy with it, are mostly younger guys trying to spin donuts and such.

 

I just like having it. I didn't use it much this winter, but I wasn't around much either. I tend to just throw it in 4wd. I haven't been in many places that would warrant it unless I was there now (after a bunch of rain)

 

Yeah, I asked this question a while back. I regretted not getting it-"what if I need it?!" Yet as I thought about it I realized that in all the years of having a 4X4 truck I not only never got stuck but rarely had to even put it in 4LO! And I'm a hunter who takes his truck off-road thought certainly not where I would take a Jeep or Hummer but for those places the approach and departure angles would be all wrong for a truck to get there anyway! Very glad I saved the $500. If I went with a 2 then I would get it but I would never do that! :-D

 

My '13 EB 4x2 has needed a couple of times when I was stuck in my driveway. Glad I have it.

 

I have been somewhat high centered a couple times, turn the locker on, and it creeps on over whatever I'm stuck on....it's a cool feature for sure..

 

I love mine. Bad for snow and ice, great for climbing gravel roads with a heavy trailer. Have 4x4 for snow etc.

Basically, if you'd lose power to one wheel because the other is lifted or loose (crawling, gravel roads, etc) you can lock both together and get power to both wheels regardless.

Its death on ice. Virtually guaranteed to slide if you aren't travelling straight.

Buy and use it for the right purpose and you'll love it.