How do air lockers work

Roof Racks. Cargo Carriers. Wide Style Fender Flares. Street Style Fender Flares. Lighted Headache Racks. Louvered Headache Racks.

Mesh Headache Racks. Light Bars. Interior Lights. Side Steps. Nerf Bars. Performance Exhausts. Performance Electronics. Diesel Performance. The original Air Locker was developed in the s. This design featured a three-piece case with an air actuated cast piston. Over the years, four-wheeling has changed drastically.

Large tires and engines in that era do not compare to what is being used today. The research and development consisted of many torque and failure tests on the Air Locker and other lockers.

At the beginning of the 21st century, the new and improved Air Locker was released. Today, there are over a thousand different Air Locker applications available across hundreds of vehicle platforms. The original prototype Air Locker featured a vacuum operated locking system. If you have a BoostCruising account enter your user name and password into the yellow box. Share tweet. Just curious how air lockers work, if they can be installed my old man is a mechanic, could he do it and are they worth the money?

TOP Quote Reply. HSV Post 3. It gives the sense that because manufacturers rely on e-lockers, so should the aftermarket.

However, when these factory units fail, that gives the air locker camp more ammunition. Remember how we said air lockers have the added advantage of almost immediate engagement? Well, that convenience comes at a cost. And while e-lockers may be more cost-effective, there are still labor costs to consider as well. Unless you have a reasonable amount of experience working on any differential, you really want to take this job to a professional. Ideally, you want a shop that has experience working specifically with locking differentials for off-road vehicles.

Dan Guyer, Wheel and Tire Category Manager at Keystone Automotive , is our go-to guy for all-things-off-road because of his extensive knowledge and real-world experience. And on the air stuff? The installer knows how to route things and use quality materials. When weighing the pros and cons as well as the cost of air lockers or e-lockers, consider whether or not both differentials need to be locked. How hard are you looking to push that rig?

Obviously, by installing lockers to both the front and rear of the vehicle, you will reach ultimate potential in terms of traction. Do you mostly use that truck for hauling and towing , with occasional off-road wheeling thrown in for fun?

If hardcore off-roading is more your game, consider the front-locking differential.