Why Keep Lockers Disengaged Until Needed?

One of the main advantages of having selectable lockers is the ability to control your turning radius. Lockers, when engaged, will cause your tires to rotate at the same speed, which can push your vehicle straight even when you want to turn. This effect is especially noticeable on loose traction surfaces and tight trails, where turning as sharply as possible is often necessary.

Engaging your lockers can create more stress on your steering system, especially when navigating rocks or ruts. This increased strain comes from the extra traction your locker provides, which can make it harder for the front tires to grip and steer. The additional stress can heat up your power steering fluid to the point of boiling, potentially leading to loss of steering or even a burst power steering hose. If you've installed larger tires or a front locker, you may already notice this strain and have upgraded to a power steering cooler or even hydraulic assist steering to handle it.

Because of these potential issues, it's best to leave your lockers disengaged until they are absolutely needed. This way, you maintain better maneuverability and reduce stress on your vehicle's steering system.

When To Use Your Lockers During Off-Roading Sessions

The decision to use lockers depends on the type of obstacle you're facing and the terrain that you're trying to tackle. Here's a breakdown of when to use each setup:

• Downhill Sections: Always keep lockers disengaged when going downhill to allow your wheels to rotate independently and maintain better control.
• Rock Gardens and Mud Holes: If you need to steer while navigating through a rock garden or mud hole, avoid locking the front axle unless absolutely necessary for traction. Engaging the front locker will make it harder to turn. Instead, consider locking just the rear axle.
• Steep Climbs or Ledges: If you need your front tires to pull you over a ledge or rock face, engage the front locker. If there are no sharp turns at the top, you can lock both the front and rear axles for extra traction. If you need to make a turn at the top, keeping only the front locked will allow for better maneuverability.
• Mud in a Straight Line: For deep mud, it's best to lock both the front and rear axles to get as much traction as possible. In this scenario, traction is more important than maneuverability.
• Sharp Turns on Obstacles: When approaching obstacles that require a turn, locking only the front axle will provide enough traction while still allowing some maneuverability. Rear tires push you through a turn, so keeping the rear open can help you navigate more precisely.

A good rule of thumb is that front tires pull and rear tires push. When facing an obstacle, consider which action you need more—pulling or pushing—and engage your lockers accordingly.

Importance Of Knowing Your Vehicle For Off-Roading Purposes

Every vehicle handles differently, so understanding how your specific setup behaves is crucial. Getting seat time and practicing on smaller obstacles will help you understand when to engage your lockers and how your vehicle responds. Start small and gradually move on to more challenging trails as you become more comfortable with your rig.

Geographical areas can also play a role in whether lockers are necessary. For example, when wheeling in places like Moab, Utah, selectable lockers are often a must due to the steep ledges and rocky terrain. In contrast, if you're in an area with fewer extreme obstacles, such as the Midwest (where the terrain is a bit flatter), you might not need to use them as often.

Shop Aftermarket Parts, Accessories & More For Your Rig at TrailBuilt Off-Road

Using lockers is about finding the right balance between traction and maneuverability, and that goes for whatever you drive and wherever you go. Start by practicing on smaller obstacles, and get comfortable with how your vehicle handles in different situations. Whether you're climbing rock ledges or navigating through tight trails, knowing when to engage your lockers can make all the difference in your off-roading experience.

If you have any questions about lockers or want to share your own experiences, let us know! And don't forget to check out our website for wheel and tire packages, suspension upgrades, and accessories for your off-road rig. With special financing options available, you can build your dream setup today, along with free shipping and quick delivery to the lower 48.