A Dana 30 locker is a mechanism that replaces the inner side and spider gears in a Dana 30 differential. The side and spider gears are what allow both wheels on the same axle to turn at different speeds, such as when turning a corner. A Dana 30 locker will force both tires to turn at the same speed. This is beneficial for low-traction driving conditions, such as off-road.
There are several different types of Dana 30 lockers available, however their goal is to do the same: deliver 100% of engine torque to both drive wheels on one axle.
Two of the most popular Dana 30 lockers are the Powertrax Lock-Right locker and the (Eaton) Detroit EZ Locker. Both lockers are similar to each other (and I’ve often had customers order the Lock-Right because of the lower price). These are positive locking automatic differentials. Them may They can be used in demanding off-road situations, but are designed for the recreational off-road. Due to their “lighter duty” nature, they will allow your axis to deviate around a curve. The internal gears will invade each other to allow for differentiation.
Some of the benefits include:
- It fits inside the existing differential case.
- Installs easily without special tools or setup equipment.
- Cheap compared to heavy duty lockers.
The (Eaton) Detroit Locker is a heavy duty Dana 30 locker. This is a definite step in strength and price over light duty lockers. The difference is that it is a complete replacement unit for the differential case with the locking components built into the interior and is not as forgiving of differentiation at the corners. Otherwise, its automatic positive locking function is the same.
Some of the benefits include:
- Strength – Built to 70,000 lbs. capacity.
- Reliability – You will never let a wheel stop turning.
The Dana 30 ARB Air Locker, Auburn ECTED Locker, Eaton E-locker, and OX Locker are similar in that they are also (like the Detroit Locker) heavy duty lockers, except they are not automatic. They lock on demand, either with the flick of a switch, the push of a button, or the turn of a knob / lever. This gives the driver the most control in any driving situation. After all the hardware and labor required for installation, these are typically the most expensive type of Dana 30 locker.