68 replies to this topic

[ntsqd]

They are that. We have two other rigs with dual ARB's for the more technical stuff though. Having driven a rear Detroit for over 100k miles I'm really enjoying not having one on the street.

[ckent323]

Ace, ntsqd,

 

Agreed that the Tru-Trac seems to be the best way to go over selectable lockers (Eaton E-Locker, ARB Air locker, Auburn, Ox) and certainly better than automatic lockers (Detroit, Powertrax) for my Dodge W250 truck.

 

Never-the-less, given a finite budget I still have the perspective that the tru-trac (or even a selectable locker) mod is appropriate before adding a winch.

 

Regards,

Craig

 

This is worth a read:

http://forum.expedit...-ARB-Air-Locker

Edited by ckent323, 04 October 2017 - 10:30 PM.

[Advmoto18]

My 2016 F-350 came with a rear E locker, but, it will soon be replaced with a maual air locker.

Lockers are definitely a have traction oriented device IMO.  Lacking traction, I can easily see how a locker can make things worse.

 

Winch...

I've been winching since 1972.  I really can't imagine heading off into the boonies, especially solo, without a winch and all the associated gear for self recovery.

We had to winch through deep snow, twice, to get to a turn around spot on NF-24 north of Trout Lake, WA last week of May.

 

Winch is just another tool in the proverbial tool box.  One of those things you don't miss, until needed.  And I'm soundly in the camp of "I'd rather have and not need, then need and not have."

Edited by Advmoto18, 05 October 2017 - 02:46 PM.

[ntsqd]

Ace, that was a small part of what I hated about the Detroit. Fortunately I don't drive in those conditions often.

 

Craig, The Dana Trac-Lok (?) in our CTD behaves pretty much as a locker when driving straight under a lot of torque, but will allow internal slippage in a turn if the differential torque is high enough - unlike a locker. For a lighter rig a Tru-Trac is a great choice. I've been told that they are not as physically strong as a Detroit, so that is my caution in using them in a heavier rig. Ruben would certainly have better intel and more experience with them.

 

The ARB's are all new to me. I have them plumbed (no solenoids!) so that I can lock either end independent of the other. The ARB solenoid wiring doesn't allow that.

 

I have an 8247 for the Bronc-up, an M8 for the 4rnnr, and a Superwinch 18k for the CTD. All lacking mounting equipment although the Bronc-up does have a period looking winch bumper that needs mods to fit..

[JHanson]

I must disagree about automatic versus manual lockers. Even the best auto lockers produce some negative effects on tire wear and, depending on the product, handling and noise. As Ace mentioned, a locked diff on ice can be a distinct disadvantage. 

 

I much prefer having total control over when the diff is and isn't locked. One of the most significant advantages of a manual diff lock over traction control is being able to proactively engage it when you spot a tough spot coming up. And even the best traction control algorithm must allow some wheel spin before the computer engages it.

 

I find it the best of all worlds to have a normal differential in most situations, and a full locker when (and only when) I need it.

[craig333]

Pretty much agree with Mr.Hanson. I have a detroit in my Jeep and its definitely interesting to drive. No way I'd put one in my truck. Unfortunately due to the age of my Jeep I had few options (it does a limited slip up front). 

 

There weren't many options for my truck either when I first bought it. I'm sure there are many more now but I still have to deal with the cost. Its more than a winch! Purchase and install. I'm not going to install a locker myself.

 

Okay, dilemma. Upgrade to locking hubs or install a locker/LS? 

[ckent323]

I asked the folks at Filthy Motorsports (see the attached informative video on Differentials below)and they recommended tru-trac for my application.

 

"For your application I would definitely recommend the TrueTrac in the back.

 

If you need additional traction, a locker up front would complete the package.

 

Lockers are not good on Icy transitions, but TrueTracs handle it very well."

 

 

I see that I have unintentionally taken this thread off on a tangent to bumpers and winches.  My apologies this differential stuff really deserves to be a separate thread on Differentials.  

 

Apologies for the detour.

 

Just the same I hope the information his helpful.

 

Regards,

Craig
 

[ottorogers]

I am looking for insight and opinions on front bumpers, winches and driving lights.  I have looked but can't seem to find a decent thread on the topic.

 

I drive a 2015 Tundra and have pretty much boiled my decision on a bumper down to an Expedition One with the pre-runner hoops .  I would like to consider ARB but am tired of waiting for them to come out with a bumper that will fit my truck.  Besides, Expedition One is offering 20% off on all their bumper orders through the end of July so I should move quickly!

 

• Thoughts and opinions on bumper selection appreciated.  What do you have and why?
• Considering Smittybilt winch-could wear out three before paying for the Warn
• Lights-Expedition One offers PIAA and Baja Designs for my truck-anybody with experience with these brands-light up trails, failures, life expectancy, etc.  Looking at fogs for the ports and something on top-will accommodate up to 3 8" lights on top of bumper.

I am really having a hard time with the lights since I have never owned a truck with these types of lights.  The reviews and videos are spotty at best.

 

Give us your opinions, post pictures etc! Thanks!

I have a 2014 Tundra, I also am tired of waiting for ARB, for some reason they stopped at 2013, for the last 5 years people have been buying Tundra trucks with almost no options for aftermarket bumpers, I want a rear bumper with swing out storage bins, no problem for 2013 Tundra, big problem for 2014 and newer, why????

[trikebubble]

I have a 2014 Tundra, I also am tired of waiting for ARB, for some reason they stopped at 2013, for the last 5 years people have been buying Tundra trucks with almost no options for aftermarket bumpers, I want a rear bumper with swing out storage bins, no problem for 2013 Tundra, big problem for 2014 and newer, why????

Their are quite a few front bumper options out their for 2014+ Tundra's, not so much for rear expedition style (w/tire and/or fuel carriers) bumpers. Coming from my old Xterra, where most aftermarket items were made for the adventure/exploration/overland type setup, I have noticed that most aftermarket things I've seen for Tundra's are (how do I say this politely?) for mall-crawling show trucks. With the exception of a couple front bumpers, most are hideous.

 

It has taken me a little time and research to wade through the stuff and find good quality components for my truck, that will function as required.

In building my Tundra, I have a goal in mind to make it as capable as possible, while trying to keep a stealth (almost stock) appearance. I've lifted it close to 4" with a combination of components: ADS Racing shocks and coilvoers, OME Dakar leafpakcs, MCM Fab uca's, Firestone airbags, and 295 Nitto Ridge Grapplers on Method Double Standard wheels.

I bought a Southern Style Offroad Slimline front bumper, and have a 12K Smittybilt winch ready to go in side it. I also purchased a pair of Slee sliders, and a Wilco Hitchgate w/dual fuel can and Hi-Lift holder on it.

We have a Four Wheel Camper on order, which should be here sometime late winter of early spring. It is my intention to make the Tundra into a great Swiss-army knife type multi-use camping/expedition/adventure/road-trip/weekend get-away type rig.