What Jeeps Come With Lockers? How to Unlock
Jeeps with lockers include the jeep wrangler rubicon, gladiator rubicon, and the grand cherokee trailhawk. These models are equipped with lockers from the factory to enhance their off-road capabilities.
Jeep enthusiasts who love to tackle challenging terrains and go off the beaten path know how important it is to have a vehicle that can keep up. Lockers provide the necessary traction to conquer rough trails, rocks, and obstacles.
In this article, I will discuss what jeeps come with lockers. The jeep offers several models equipped with lockers straight from the factory.
Credit: www.offroadxtreme.com
Jeep Models With Built-In Lockers
Jeep vehicles are well-known for their off-road capabilities, and factory-installed lockers enhance their off-road performance. Lockers are crucial to distribute power equally to all wheels in challenging environments and situations. We’ll discuss jeep models that come with built-in lockers, performance capabilities, and benefits of factory-installed lockers.
Overview Of Jeep Models With Factory-Installed Lockers
Jeep offers three models that come equipped with factory-installed lockers. These models are
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Jeep wrangler rubicon features lockable front and rear dana 44 axles, which provides ultimate traction in off-roading. The wrangler rubicon comes with tru-lock electronic locking front and rear differentials that offer unbeatable off-road performance. These lockers provide maximum torque to the wheel that has the most traction.
Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
Jeep gladiator rubicon come with the same lockable front and rear dana 44 axles as the wrangler rubicon. It features an electronic sway bar disconnect, which enhances the vehicle’s articulation when travelling off-road. The gladiator rubicon comes with electronic differential lockers that enhance the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.
Performance Capabilities Of Rubicon Models
Jeep rubicon models provide an exceptional level of off-road performance capabilities. Here are some of the key performance specifications of the Rubicon models:
- A maximum ground clearance of up to 11.8 inches improves off-road capabilities.
- Improved articulation due to an electronic sway bar disconnect system
- 33-inch all-terrain tires, which offer better traction and handling.
- Improved approach, departure, and break-over angles.
Benefits Of Factory-Installed Lockers
Factory-installed lockers offer several benefits, including:
- Enhanced off-road capabilities: Lockers provide equal power distribution to all the wheels, providing ultimate traction in difficult terrain.
- Improved maneuverability: Lockers provide better handling and steering control in off-road conditions.
- Reduced wear and tear: Lockers limit wheelspin, reducing tire wear and drivetrain wear.
- Convenience: An onboard switch can easily activate and deactivate electronic lockers.
Overall, if you plan to take your Jeep off-road, a Rubicon model with factory-installed lockers is an excellent option. Jeep’s electronic lockers provide improved off-road capabilities, better traction, and handling, enabling you to conquer rugged terrains easily and comfortably.
After-Market Locker Options
Explanation Of After-Market Locker Options
Jeep owners with off-road ambitions often choose to upgrade their vehicles with different accessories, including lockers. When it comes to lockers, there are two options: factory-installed and after-market. After-market lockers are installed by third-party manufacturers, providing jeep owners with more flexibility in selecting their desired locker type.
Pros And Cons Of After-Market Locker Installation
Before investing in after-market lockers, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider:
Pros
- After-market lockers offer numerous customization options, giving jeep owners the freedom to choose specific brands and models that meet their needs.
- Many after-market lockers are significantly stronger than factory-installed models, boosting a jeep’s off-road capabilities.
- After-market lockers are often cheaper than factory-installed models, especially if installed by the owner or a trusted mechanic.
Cons
- Installing after-market lockers can be a daunting task for jeep owners who are not mechanically inclined. Professional installation can be expensive.
- The durability of some after-market lockers may be questionable, leading to potential failures on off-road trails.
In-Depth Look At Popular Locker Brands
Here is an overview of some of the most popular after-market locker brands on the market:
Arb Air Locker
Arb is one of the most popular locker brands among jeep enthusiasts. Their air locker uses compressed air to engage the locker, resulting in instant locking of both wheels. This locker is known for its durability and strength, making it a popular choice for hardcore off-roaders.
Eaton Detroit Locker
Another popular brand among jeep owners is eaton detroit locker, which uses a mechanical locking mechanism that provides maximum traction on both wheels. This locker is typically recommended for extreme off-roading, as it can be harsh on tires when used for everyday driving.
Yukon Grizzly Locker
The yukon grizzly locker is built for heavy-duty off-road use, featuring a mechanical locker that engages both wheels simultaneously. The locker is also equipped with forged internals, making it incredibly strong and durable.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
When determining whether after-market lockers are worth the investment, it is crucial to consider the cost-benefit ratio. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- After-market lockers can range in price from $500 to $1,500, depending on the brand and installation method.
- If installed correctly, after-market lockers can significantly improve a jeep’s off-road performance, making them a worthy investment for those who frequently hit the trails.
- It is important to weigh up the potential long-term repair costs associated with after-market lockers. While cheaper than factory-installed models, some after-market lockers may require more maintenance and repairs over time.
After-market lockers are a great option for jeep owners looking to upgrade their vehicles’ off-road capabilities. With numerous brands and models available, it is important to research and choose the locker that best suits your needs and budget. By weighing up the pros and cons before investing and performing proper maintenance, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable off-road experience.
Locker Types: Automatic Vs Manual
Lockers are essential when it comes to driving off-road with a jeep. They offer a significant advantage, providing your vehicle with extra traction, leading to better performance in challenging terrains. Jeep enthusiasts have a range of locker types to choose from, with each locker type providing unique benefits and drawbacks.
This blog post will focus on manual and automatic lockers and everything you need to know when selecting the best locker type for your jeep.
Distinction Between Automatic And Manual Lockers
An automatic locker would engage by itself when needed, while a manual locker would require manual activation.
Pros And Cons Of Automatic Lockers
Pros:
- Automatic lockers are easy to install, requiring less modification to the vehicle.
- They offer a lower price point than other lockers and can be found at retailers easily.
- They are an excellent option for occasional or weekend off-road drivers.
**cons:**
- They require regular maintenance and can wear out quickly due to their automatic nature.
- The locker’s automatic disengagement can happen at the wrong time, forcing the wheel to spin, causing wheel hop, or in some cases, a complete stop of the vehicle.
Pros And Cons Of Manual Lockers
**pros:**
- They offer better control in off-road conditions, manually activating the locker when needed.
- They last longer than automatic lockers due to their manual nature, allowing for less wear and tear.
- Manual lockers provide maximum traction when needed for the best off-road experience.
**cons:**
- They tend to be expensive, costing more than their automatic counterpart due to the additional manual activation requirements.
- Manual lockers are more challenging to install, and modification to the jeep is usually needed to retrofit them.
Considerations For Selecting A Locker Type
When choosing a locker type, several factors need to be considered, including budget, off-road use frequency, terrain type, and the jeep’s primary purpose. Therefore, here are some of the essential considerations when selecting locker types:
- If you’re on a budget, automatic lockers are the ideal option as they are easy to install and low-priced
- For the best off-road experience, a manual locker will provide maximum traction control for challenging terrain.
- If your jeep is primarily used for daily commutes and occasional off-road driving, then automatic lockers will suffice.
- If you frequently engage in off-road driving, manual lockers will last longer due to their manual activation nature.
- A thorough understanding of your jeep’s requirements and terrain type will also impact your decision when selecting a locker type.
To conclude, when considering locker types for your jeep, it’s essential to evaluate the pros and cons of automatic and manual lockers. Ensure a thorough understanding of your off-roading requirements and your jeep’s primary purpose to make an informed decision.
Regardless of the choice, both manual and automatic lockers offer significant advantages that make off-roading a smoother experience.
Locker Features And Benefits
Explanation Of Locker Features:
Lockers are a popular aftermarket modification for jeep enthusiasts looking to enhance their off-road performance. Generally, lockers come in two types: mechanical and electronic.
Mechanical Lockers:
- These are the most basic and reliable type of lockers. They work on the principle of engaging and disengaging the differential gears, allowing both wheels on the axle to turn together.
- Examples include detroit locker, powertrax lock-right, and eaton e-locker.
Electronic Lockers:
- These are the modern type of lockers, using an electronic system to control the differential operation.
- Examples include eaton elocker, arb air locker and the g2 axle and gear core series.
Benefits Of Installing Lockers:
Improved off-road performance, enhanced traction, and increased safety are some of the vital benefits that come with installing lockers in a jeep.
Enhanced Traction:
- Lockers prevent the wheels from slipping and distribute power evenly to both wheels on the axle. As a result, they improve traction in off-road terrains like mud, snow, and rocky surfaces.
Improved Off-Road Performance:
- Lockers help in tackling difficult terrains. They allow a jeep to climb steep grades, traverse uneven trails, and crawl over rocks confidently, with increased power to all wheels.
Increased Safety:
- Lockers provide additional safety to the vehicle. With both wheels on the axle turning at the same speed, there is less chance of the jeep sliding or rolling, making off-road exploration safer.
Adding lockers to your jeep will significantly increase its off-road capabilities and make your off-road experiences safer.
Frequently Asked Questions Of What Jeeps Come With Lockers
Which Jeep Models Come With Factory Lockers?
Jeep wrangler rubicon and gladiator rubicon come with front and rear electronic lockers.
Can Lockers Be Added To Jeeps Without Them?
Yes, lockers can be installed on jeeps without them using aftermarket locking differentials.
What’S The Difference Between Open And Locked Differentials?
Open differential sends power to the tire with the least amount of resistance, while locked differential sends equal power to both wheels.
Why Are Lockers Important For Off-Roading?
Locking differentials improve traction, prevent wheel spin and slippage, and increase off-road capability.
Are Lockers Necessary For Daily Driving?
Lockers are not necessary for daily driving but can improve overall performance and handling in certain driving conditions, such as snow and ice.
Conclusion
To sum it up, lockers play a significant role in improving off-road performance by keeping your wheels spinning in sync. We have covered the list of some of the jeeps that come with factory-installed lockers, such as the rubicon, the gladiator, and the wrangler.
They have proved their worth during off-road adventures, making them a trustworthy companion to those who seek thrilling experiences. However, if your jeep doesn’t come with lockers, it’s still possible to retrofit them. Keep in mind that the cost of retrofitting can be substantial, and it requires professional installation to ensure optimal performance.
Don’t forget that lockers aren’t an end-all solution to all your off-road challenges. Safe driving is always the key, no matter how well-equipped your vehicle is. Happy off-roading!
