Im looking into getting a locking rear differential for my 94 pickup 22re.

The local offroad shops i contacted have suggested that i get an Air locker. I like the idea of it but it seems the most expensive way to go and the most complicated. I don't have any experience with any kind of locking rear diff so im unsure what works best or whitch is most reliable.

I do both on and off road driving so I want to be able to engage and disengage the diff at my discrerssion, I dont really care how tho (air, electronic, cable). Im open to the idea of an ARB air locker with the compressor so that in the future i can get a front air locker. Plus the potential to use the compressor with a tank to air up tires after riding the trail would be a big plus.

Basically what im asking for is advice on what brand air locker to go with and any feedback from experience using any type or brand locker. Any advice would be greatly appriceated.

 

I looked into this as well, but think I prefer the Aussie mechanical locker over air, less to go wrong with it. Will keep an eye on this to see what the results/reviews are.

 

Welcome to Yotatech.
If this is you DD and need it as a winter truck I would go with the ARB if you can afford it. A rear locker equipped truck can break loose easily on snow covered roads. I lived in Alaska and NY. You can get used to it.
If you are halfway mechanically incline I would consider ordering a third from east coast gear or other vendor and installing it yourself.

 

Try a TRD elocker from a 98-04 Tacoma, can find them all the time at a junkyard for a fair price and it should just bolt in if you use the axle. You will have to cut a notch out of your axle if you buy just the third member... but other than that its just wiring it up

 

I just did a Yukon locker with my gears and I like it. I haven't had the chance to go wheeling yet but it is a different beast from an open diff. I can see how it will take some getting used to in the snow you just have to be careful until you get the feel for it. Really it's all about the loot you want to spend.

 

FTFY.

 

95.5-97 didnt come with elockers, first year was 98

 

They were an option from 95.5-97 before the TRD models.

 

I think the arb is definatly worth it. Some find it hard to justify as they only spent $500 for the whole truck. I'm a big fan of buying it once and buying it right. Start filling your piggy bank asap.I had a lunch box locker in the rear before the arb and it didn't feel "solid" like the arb does. It also couldn't handle the power I put out so it broke. I've had mine for 2 years and the only issue I had was a small leak from my gauge in the cab. The e-lockers are nice, but unless you get the whole axle housing it might be more work than your looking for.

Check online classifieds for arb lockers people bought but didn't use. Make sure its still in the box and hasn't been installed. Last week there was a package deal locally of 2 arb lockers, viair onboard tank with compressor, all the wiring/hoses ect, and 2 sets of 5.29 gears for $2000.

 

huh didnt know that learn something new every day lol

 

"I think the arb is definatly worth it. Some find it hard to justify as they only spent $500 for the whole truck. I'm a big fan of buying it once and buying it right. Start filling your piggy bank asap.I had a lunch box locker in the rear before the arb and it didn't feel "solid" like the arb does. It also couldn't handle the power I put out so it broke. I've had mine for 2 years and the only issue I had was a small leak from my gauge in the cab. The e-lockers are nice, but unless you get the whole axle housing it might be more work than your looking for.

Check online classifieds for arb lockers people bought but didn't use. Make sure its still in the box and hasn't been installed. Last week there was a package deal locally of 2 arb lockers, viair onboard tank with compressor, all the wiring/hoses ect, and 2 sets of 5.29 gears for $2000."

I agree completly, Im going to see if i can find a whole rear end to swap or some parts in a classified. The only question i have so far is will i have to change the gearing in the newly found rear axle to match up with my front end? I have stock gears in my truck currently. If they are the same i wont have to mess with the guts of the rear end.