that’s the installer’s problem
it’s your problem when you’re paying an hourly rate for a mechanic/installer.
it’s your problem when you’re paying an hourly rate for a mechanic/installer.
It can also be a problem on the trail if there's a malfunction and you don't know how to fix it because you paid someone to do the job. Not that everyone should know how to build diffs, but a solid working knowledge of the component and all of it parts can be helpful in that type of scenario. It beats the alternative, "I don't know why its not working, I pushed the button"
double edge sword on this... if you don’t have the skill set or knowledge to install your $1200 locker, you probably should pay someone that know what the hell they are doing so you don’t break it on the trail.
Agreed, but
* Not that everyone should know how to build diffs, but a solid working knowledge of the component and all of it parts can be helpful in that type of scenario.
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Yes but if get the larger ARB compressor you can now re-fill your tires after airing down, that's a +
are you suggesting that you're not paying the mechanic/installer an hour rate to run the Eaton E-Locker electronics & wiring to the diff and to your dashboard?
Another wash.
Same for OX.
If saving a buck is the primary consideration get an automatic locker.
From the air compressor to the diff is a rubber hose that can be spliced rather easily. If the problem is deeper, perhaps a malfunction inside the diff or the air compressor itself that's certainly a different story, though one that's not unique to air lockers, any mechanical selectable locker can malfunction leaving you with issues you may or may not be able to resolve yourself.
I've never given that any thought because if the ARB ever fails lock you're simply left with what you started with, an open diff, maybe you'll have to pull a line... maybe not. Simply put it's not a day ender
Willhugh
Member
I'm having this same dilemma right now. Running stock dana 30/35 and want a regear and selectible lockers. After factoring in the price of the parts and labor to build up my current axles, I'm seriously considering either sourcing Rubicon axles or buying crate dana 44s from East Coast Gear.
Anyone have experience with the ECGS axles? Seems like I might be able to find Rubi axles for less than $2k a piece, but not sure what I'd find inside once I got them home.
I'm in NH as well if you'd ever like to get together and wheel.
Will
Anyone have experience with the ECGS axles? Seems like I might be able to find Rubi axles for less than $2k a piece, but not sure what I'd find inside once I got them home.
I'm in NH as well if you'd ever like to get together and wheel.
Will
Yea, they are on the books to build my Spider 9 with super kingpins for my YJ build.
Very easy to work with. Chase, the owner took over my order and worked with me to get everything right. Worked with Fusion, Dynatrac, Currie, and some other axle builders to get quotes for my specific build specs. ECGS rose to the top. I would highly recommend them.
Willhugh
Member
That's awesome to hear. Pricing for a full set of new dana 44 axles looks like it might only be ~ $2k more than rehabbing and building out my stock 30/35. I'm comfortable swapping axle assemblies but gearing and installing lockers is probably beyond what I want to take on.
IIRC, ECGS charges $250 an axle for gear installs.
With the 489 stuff, you may can run genuine Dana Spicer gears, which would be nice.
@Jerry Bransford and all the others that helped make this happen. The Jeep and I thank you for your knowledgeable advice.
Don't change to a 44 in the rear. It's not an upgrade at all. More weight and less clearance. Most people even end up spending more to get less. Just do a super 35 with a selectable like you say. The type doesn't matter as far as I'm concerned. I'd probably do a Yukon zip but you do you. If you don't lock the 30 it'll be fine. Only go down that road if a rear locker isn't enough. Locking the Dana 30 turns one of the most reliable parts on your Jeep into a liability, just leave it alone until you really NEED to.
Willhugh
Member
I decided to build up my current axle with a super 35 kit and selectable locker. Will end up being lighter and having better ground clearance. I don't see myself ever going larger than 35 inch tires.
I bought a Dana 44 to replace my Dana 35.
I was not one of the lucky one's to find a 44 for cheap.
Willhugh
Member
That's the one! Currently waiting on the local shop for a labor quote to do lockers and gears.
I looked at a set of Rubicon dana 44s the other day, but the amount of rehab work required, plus the risk of the lockers not working correctly gave me pause. I saw you and @Irun respond to someone recently and say the super 35 kit was the way to go, and that helped me make my mind up.
