Buyers Guide - Drivetrain Essentials

Story & Photos by Off-Road Adventures Staff

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ARB AIR LOCKING DIFFERENTIALS
This Australian manufacturer's "flagship" product is now available for both front and rear axles for '07 Jeep JKs. Equipped with Dana 30 front axles and 44 rear axles for non-Rubicons, the latest Wrangler uses their existing part #s: RD100 for front/ RD117 for rear - regardless of factory gear ratio. Both have been successfully installed and operated for the last five years and can be installed using the standard Air Locker fitting instructions supplied. The product is a "world tested" and well-trusted selectable style locker that offers 100% traction at the flick of a switch. Engineered using the very latest CAD, CAM parametric solid modelling systems and finite element analysis software, they offer both strength and reliability for over 30 years.

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EATON TRACTION AT THE TOUCH
Eaton ELocker(tm) is a new electronic locking differential for Jeeps equipped with Dana 30 axles. With the simple press of a button, it provides off-road performance enthusiasts with superior traction and drivability. With its new four-pinion design it withstands the deep gearing, large tires and harsh off-road terrain that taxes even the most robust OE component. Product will be available for stock 27-spline axle or hp 30-spline axle. To order call 800-284- 9840. From $739.99 EACH

 

POWERTRAX(r) TRACTION
Manufactured by Richmond Gear, this latest system adds differential tech. It combines the smooth operation of a limited- slip differential, with traction performance of a locking one. When power is applied, the unit automatically locks, providing 100% no-slip power to both wheels. When power is not applied and the vehicle is turned, the unit acts like an open differential. A synchronization mechanism eliminates ratcheting sounds typical of locking differentials. There are no clutches to wear out. Simple installation requires no ring and pinion set-up. No special tools or oils are needed. Installation typically takes about 90 minutes. Product is rated at 800 ft. lb torque and available for 2+4 wheel drives. To order call 800-284-9840. $444.99 EACH

ADVANCE ADAPTERS AUTO TRANNY
Good things come in "big" packages. Advance Adapters now carries a full line of automatic transmissions to complement their adapter line. Built for heavy-duty offroad use, these GM, Ford and Jeep units can be customized to your specifications with their required kits installed. Product includes a 2 Year, 24,000- mile warranty. To order call 800-284-9840. From $1545.99 EACH

 

ARB LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL COVER
Manufactured from high tensile, solid nodular iron that's tougher and harder than solid carbon steel, these protect your air locker and ring + pinion set up from rock crawling obstacles and challenging trails. An incorporated, computer-optimized cross brace design adds over 900 lbs of "torsional" rigidity to entire axle assembly. The resulting increased flex strength encourages improved meshing of the ring + pinion gears and greater carrier bearing support for longer component life and overall load strength. The low profile housing maximizes the running gear clearance around the unit and provides optimal approach and departure angles. The unique combo dipstick and filler cap allows differential oil levels to be adjusted for customized high driveline angles, and to check for possible water contaminations without having to drain the unit. Made from high quality, rare earth magnets, both the dipstick and drain plug are designed to collect any metal wear particles floating in the fluid. Product is red powder-coated, CNC machined and then clear coated for durable finish. Available for Dana 30, 35, 35C, 44, 60 and Land Rover Salisbury style axles.

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CURRIE ROCKJOCK(r) REAR-END
This product features a replaceable AR400 heat-treated steel skid plate and exclusive design lubrication system. Company offers a multitude of components, parts and options for applications. Product pictured includes nodular iron housing with 3" tubes and large bearing housing ends, 35 spline forged alloy axles, 11" drum brakes, choice of gears, 35-spline traction lock differential, fully assembled and complete. Options include: Bracketry bridge, leaf spring brackets/shock mounts mounted, Jeep TJ rear suspension brackets mounted, aluminum cover with Carrier Cap Stabilizers 11" Ford Explorer disc brakes, 12" Wilwood disc brakes, Gear ratio options, Detroit True-Trac, Detroit Locker, ARB Air Locker, Light weight aluminum RockJock housing.

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CURRIE - BUILT FOR JEEP
These rear-end kits are designed to replace OEM units with a stronger assembly built to add hp and durability to '87-95 Jeep Wranglers. They're completely assembled by their own factory-trained specialist using high-quality, tested and matched components. They feature 9-plus heavy-duty housing and their 31-spline axle package built to the stock overall width and pinion offset specs. Heavy-duty 2-1/4" wide leaf spring pads and stock style shock mounts are included; ready to weld to help you set the correct pinion angle. Housing includes all third. member studs installed and Torino style late model large bearing housing ends. This unit allows use of any ABCS brake kit.

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AUBURN GEAR
Auburn Gear Inc. introduces an electrical Locking differential for the Dana 44 model axles. Two new part numbers became available December 2006 with 30 tooth axle splines. This new performance differential is selectable via a dash or console mounted switch. When selected "off" the differential performs like a limited slip differential for street performance. When selected "on" the electrical differential becomes a full locked differential or spool for off-road or drag racing use. Auburn ECTED Lockers are also available for Dana 30 & 35, Ford 8.8", GM 10 & 12 bolt, AMC 20, axle applications.

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"SUPER SIZE" LAND CRUISERS
Advanced Adapters manufactures a complete and "ready-to-bolt-in" Orion Heavy-Duty Transfer case. It has a new front housing that improves strength and provides for a smoother shifter assembly. Each unit is equipped with 32- spline front and rear outputs and twin stick shifters, making you well equipped to handle the toughest trail with ease. On certain applications, this product can work as a Dana 18 replacement. Do more than add components to your ride! To order call 800-284-9840. From $1524.99


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