I'm from Texas and we rarely get snow in the winter time. And I am also kind of cheap and a student and was wondering how many out there are driving with either a rear spool or Detroit locker or rear locker of some sort in the snow? I keep hearing mixed reviews about spools being horrible, but then some say they will take it over a locker cause it's more predictable. And still others say just to leave it LSD or open. But I will also be doing some offroading, so I don't want to be stuck with one tire spinning. So for those out there who actually have a rear spool or locker, what are your driving impressions with either of these in the rear?
I'll reserve personal comment for those who actually have either but I will say, the type of vehicle you have will influence your decision.
On the other hand, our F550 had a Detroit and it was invisible on the road but that thing was loaded down. Easily the best winter vehicle I've ever driven. Your results may vary depending on your vehicle and weight.
I ran an auto locker and never had any problems. I did have good tires in the snow, and was careful all the time. If you offroad, an LSD is basically an open diff, it isn't the least bit helpful up in MN.
I have a Detroit in the rear of my Explorer, basically invisible on the street once you get used to driving with it. Never had any issues in the snow because of it. You will have to adjust your driving habits, but once you've done that you'll love it.
My SAS Jimmy has a Detroit with a 70. Once in awhile it would unload or buck. Not enough for me to worry. Like others said, get used to it. Just don't loan your vehicle to a non-wheeler to drive.
I had a welded rear (spool) in my super lightweight Samurai. It actually was pretty decent on the street, just had to turn tight corners kinda slow.
I have had stock Powerlock lockers in two of my Cummins Dodges. One Auto, one Stick. The auto was a SRW and not noticeable. My current one is a Dually and has drag around corners. Nothing serious though.
Thanks for the replies! This would be on my CJ7 with fullwidth Dana 60's, 5 speed and 351w. I'm pretty careful when I drive on the street anyways, so I will just keep these things in mind.
It's not really the deep snow that's a issue on-road...it's always the cold rain or cold slushy type conditions that seem to occasionally start to get your ass sideways. Naturally knobby off road tires help promote to wheel spin in those same conditions.
Yes it helps on ice and hard pack
You can get them to do it for like $10 a tire
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