terryd said:
ECTED vs E-Locker vs ARB???? commense to advising....
Just FYI - this question really needs to be in a separate thread in the mod. tech forum (and a *lot* has been written on this in the past; the search feature would really help), but here's my $0.02:
- E-Locker: fully-open when unlocked, so no additional traction on pavement / when the locker's not engaged. Mechanical engagement, but I've found evidence of GM & Nissan people destroying spider gears in vehicles equipped with them from the factory. Not available for the D30, D35, or C8.25 axles, so not an option for an XJ with stock axles anyway unless you've got a (rare) D44 in the back.
- ECTED: limited-slip when unlocked. Electromagnetic clutch engagement, so more of a super-tight LSD than a 'true' locker. Clutches may wear out over time, but from what I've heard pretty much everyone who has one is happy with it. Available for D30, D35, and D44, but not the C8.25.
- ARB: open when unlocked, mechanical engagement. Will require you to install OBA (or at least a compressor) at the same time. I've heard both good and bad about them, so take that for what you will. Available for D30, D35, C8.25, and D44.
My first choice had been the Eaton Electrac for the rear with an ECTED up front, but since the Electrac is now out of production I've gone with an ECTED at both ends. I really wanted limited-slip in conditions where a full-on locker isn't necessary, and wasn't keen on the extra time or money required to install the ARBs once the compressor was figured in. Not to mention that I can probably bodge a trail fix on an electric wire better than an air line in a 'get you home' situation.