Detroit locker

[1969 k/10]

Is the locker really that bad on the street?
I have a 1969 k/10 so its only a half ton and was wondering how bad the clunking would be.

Also has anyone had any experience with the Detroit soft locker??

[special-K]

I run lockers alot and have no problems.When pulling out making a turn I just go real easy until I`m straight.When I`m moving and come into a sharp turn I drift through.I only turn the inner tire when I want to.I notice no rapid wear and I also rotate every 5,000 miles since the front requires that anyway.

[Yukon Jack]

My 69 K20 has a factory No Spin which is a Detroit Locker in the rear axle. It does make a bit of noise occassionally and the first few times you hear it surprises you and you wonder what that was - then you get used to it. Drive like special-K says and you'll be fine. Be aware that you are running a locker when it is icy or snowy out. I came out of a store drive one day and there was a little moisture on the road and got spun around about 90 degrees real quick when the rear axle locked up - that is the only time it has grabbed my attention.

I'm running a new Detroit Locker in the 14 bolt I have in my 70 K5 and I find I notice it alot more. If I'm on the highway and go to coasting I can feel it unlock and when I get back on the gas it definitely pulls a bit to one side for some reason. I think that is actually becoming less of an issue the more miles I put on that Detroit Locker.

Yes your going to have an occassional clunk but it is all worth cause when you need both wheels getting full traction - the Detroit Locker is there for you!

I've never ran a locker in a front axle, however, I think your question is directed at one in the rear axle anyway.

[AJs72K5]

I put a Detroit in the 14FF on my K5. Hardly ever notice it's there. But, like YJ said, it is a lot easier to get squirrely when the road is slick from rain, ice, or otherwise. Overall very happy.

On a front axle, a locker doesn't make any difference until you lock the hubs. The hubs freespin on the spindles until you lock 'em on the axle shaft. That said, ARB's, OX's, e-locker's, etc. function in an "open" mode until you engage the locker.

[1969 k/10]

What about the cheaper lockers like lockright?
Is it worth spending 300$ less or will it break easily?

[AJs72K5]

I went with the Detroit for strength and reliability. A lot depends on tire combo, how much engine you have, and how you intend to drive it.

[1969 k/10]

Originally Posted by AJs72K5

I went with the Detroit for strength and reliability. A lot depends on tire combo, how much engine you have, and how you intend to drive it.

I have a 350 and its like 70% street 30% off roading. I'm running 32in. tires.

[LONGHAIR]

I ran one in a K/20 with a 14 bolt FF and 40" tires for several years. That truck also had a Tru-Trac in the front. It was a blg-block 4 speed too.
Even with the long bed and big heavy tires, you knew it was back there.
Like the others have said, if driven with respect, they are fine. You just have to be cautious about who you let borrow your truck, they would not be aware of this type of thing.
I have driven other trucks, w/lockers, that had automatic transmissions. These are a little more forgiving because an automatic keeps more load on the driveline. While the clunking may be less noticable, the wet-weather traction issues are still there.

[1969 k/10]

Do they make an e-locker for a 12 bolt?

[1969 k/10]

Has any ever ran a no-slip locker from powertrax?
Is it more street friendly? Does it also give you 100% lock up??

[6872xtc]

Yes you can get an E-locker for the 12 bolt, their rep told me that it has a tire size limit, but didn't say what. I know from experience that you would be fine with a soft-locker or Lock-right, (drop in style locker). I have not seen any problems with your engine, trans and tire set-up. Like everyone says, remember it on wet or slick roads, but they are very easy to get along with on dry pavement to me.

[CPNEJR]

i too am interested in getting a locker and was wondering if they make them for eatons and what is better than another w/o spending a ton of money

[special-K]

I`ve bought used No-Spins for $100-$125 off this site.The ones I`ve seen lately were more like $300.I think that`s kinda high since most guys are going to 14-bolts when there`s a problem with the HO52.New unit`s aren`t available.

[BIG HEAD]

dont just go buy a locker without knowing what gear you are going to run. the gear size will matter on the locker. a 4:56 gear may not work in a locker set up with a 3:73.

[1969 k/10]

Originally Posted by 6872xtc

Yes you can get an E-locker for the 12 bolt, their rep told me that it has a tire size limit, but didn't say what. I know from experience that you would be fine with a soft-locker or Lock-right, (drop in style locker). I have not seen any problems with your engine, trans and tire set-up. Like everyone says, remember it on wet or slick roads, but they are very easy to get along with on dry pavement to me.

Where can a find an e-locker for a 12 bolt??

[1969 k/10]

Has anyone ever tried the auburn ected before?
When you engage it, is it a full locker or just a glorified limited slip.