Dumb question? Front locker...

OK, there isn't supposed to be any such thing, so I am going to ask it I freely admit I am still learing about the 4wd drivetrain.

OK - you can't use 4wd on hard, dry surfaces since the front wheels can't slip independantly of each other, right?

So whats a front locker used for? Isn't it redundant? I've searched around, followed the excellent links to some of the beginner 4wd sites - but I am obviously not getting it...

Anyone care to draw the distinction for me?

Thanks!

The front differential is open. The binding issue, or problem with 4wd on hard-packed, or non-slippery surfaces that is, comes from binding in the transfer case when turns are negotiated and the rate of rotation in the transfer case as it relates to the front driveshaft differentiates from that in the rear driveshaft, causing a binding in the transfer case, possibly resulting in a stretched or broken transfer case chain.

A front locker affects the front differential only, locking the pumpkin up so both front axles rotate equally under all conditions. This has no effect on the power differential aspect of the transfer case.

Aha! See, that now makes perfect sense. Thanks RedX!

This board is capable of answering a simple question without a bunch of fluf comments after all!

And just an FYI there is a front locker for the X. It's made by ARB and it's an air pressure activated selectable locker. Search around and I'm sure you'll find some discussions about it.

Yup, if you read my original post carefully, you will see I knew they existed, just didn't know exactly why.

I already had Again, if you would have read my first post more closely...

At least Redx answered without mentioning @%#$ searching

Good god search Nazi's - get a life!

Shoot, jinxed this thread, didn't I? :rolleyes: