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LR4 rear locking vs open differential

Old Feb 23, 2021 | 05:51 PM
  #1  
alanko's Avatar
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Default LR4 rear locking vs open differential

New owner of a 2013 LR4... Looking into locking differentials for the rear. Mine does not have that. Does anyone know what the physical differences between the open and locked differentials are?
For example:
1. Is the physical mounting the same?
2. Are the axles the same? If different, would the locking diff axles fit into the wheel hubs used on the non-locking diff?
3. Other physical differences?
4. I believe the gear ratios are the same at 3.54?

I do realize the locker has the drive motor and associated connector.

My current thinking is that if the locker diff would physically fit, a small adapter box could be made that would allow one to engage the rear locker manually without any info going to all the vehicle systems. Since there would be no side to side rear wheels slippage, perhaps the traction control would be happy..lol?

Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2021 | 06:32 AM
  #2  
jeffh's Avatar
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or you could swap out the unit for one of these and save yourself the headache of trying to build something.
https://lucky8llc.com/collections/lr...r-locker-kit-1
 
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Old Feb 24, 2021 | 07:13 AM
  #3  
pagoda's Avatar
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Originally Posted by alanko
New owner of a 2013 LR4... Looking into locking differentials for the rear. Mine does not have that. Does anyone know what the physical differences between the open and locked differentials are?
For example:
1. Is the physical mounting the same?
2. Are the axles the same? If different, would the locking diff axles fit into the wheel hubs used on the non-locking diff?
3. Other physical differences?
4. I believe the gear ratios are the same at 3.54?

I do realize the locker has the drive motor and associated connector.

My current thinking is that if the locker diff would physically fit, a small adapter box could be made that would allow one to engage the rear locker manually without any info going to all the vehicle systems. Since there would be no side to side rear wheels slippage, perhaps the traction control would be happy..lol?

Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
It seems to be a great deal of work having read up on the experiences of others. Forgive the question if you've been around this buoy, but have you found yourself in a situation where you were screwed by the absence of a rear lock? Even without it the vehicle is still remarkably capable.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2021 | 07:30 AM
  #4  
PaulLR's Avatar
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I would say it is nearly impossible to add an OEM rear locker to an LR4 that did not come with one from the factory. It is so integrated with the terrain response software. Other LR4 owners that really wanted one decided it was easier to sell their LR4 and buy one with an OEM rear locker.

We owned 2 LR4's, one with a locker and one without. I have driven both in really difficult conditions, including deep snow a really soft sand. I could not tell the difference ever, other than the rear locker symbol on the offroad display screen lighting up green. I think the only time you really need that rear locker is rock climbing, especially when one of the rear wheels is off the ground. As noted above, if really needed, Lucky8 will be your best option.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2021 | 08:35 AM
  #5  
alanko's Avatar
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All the "instant" feedback is very much appreciated. I will talk with lucky8, might be a simple solution, as jeff8 pointed out.
I live in southern Utah...lots of rock and gravel here. My intent is not to build a rock crawler, but we do explore the back country and there are quite a few areas where wheels get lifted..even the live axle vehicles get wheels airborne at times.

I think the best for me is to get the vehicle out and see how it behaves..then go from there.

Thanks again for all the inputs. I'll post again with an update.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2021 | 01:31 PM
  #6  
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From: Philadelphia,Pa
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If your in Utah... I would reach out to the folks over at Great Bason Rovers as well. I know that usually work on older model equipment but they are a great resource. Just outside of Salt Lake I do believe. In conjunction with Lucky8.
Good luck keep us posted on your progress..
GBR Utah
 
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