Spool or no spool? That is the question...

**XJTino** · 03-09-2010, 01:41 PM

I recently purchased a 93 XJ. I put a cheap 3.5 Homebrew lift on just to get some clearance. I have some 31's on the way, and a front Aussie locker (or similar) in mind.

I definitely want to lock the rear but I don't know which route I should take. I want people's opinions.

Oh and I'm trying not to drop a huge load of cash in the process.

Here's one thought:
Lincoln Lock the Chrysler 8.25. It'll suck on road, but it's dirt cheap.
If it blows up, which it probably will, I could upgrade and throw a selectable in

Here's another:
Auto-Lock the 8.25. I hear nightmares about driving these on road. People say spools are better because they are predictable. My Cherokee is an Auto so is that any better?

And another:
Go with a selectable locker with the 8.25 29-spline axles. I'd have to buy axles and a locker so this is kinda expensive.

If I do the Lincoln, and it blows, how bad would it be damaged? Could I reuse the pumpkin?

Let me know what you guys have done. How does a spool drive on road? How does a rear auto locker drive on road?

JSBlu974X4 · 03-12-2010, 06:33 PM

driving a TJ, i havent ran those axles but spools on the road are very harsh. Detroits can be driven on road but will stick kick in around turns. with a spool it will ALWAYS be locked

**Technohead** · 03-12-2010, 06:56 PM

If you are going to drive it on the pavement then don't even consider a spool.

**XJTino** · 03-13-2010, 02:38 PM

Can someone with an auto locker in the rear of a Cherokee tell me how it drives on road. I'd love to drive in or drive one if someone nearby would be down with that.

**Technohead** · 03-14-2010, 06:57 AM

I've run automatic lockers (Detroits) in the rear of many vehicles including my current Grand Cherokee. IMO they are fine on the road. Highway is abolutely no problem. A little chirping on tight turns at lower speeds (i.e. parking garages). Also, when pulling onto the road from a parking lot I normally hold off really gasing it until the vehicle is going straight down the road or else there might be a little slippage. Nothing I would worry about and well worth it in light of the far superior off-road capability.