Diff lock, front or rear only?

[Fred Oliphant]

Have been looking at purchaseing my first UTV. Seems like a lot of the lower entry type models only have one locking diff. Some brands are front lock only and others have rear lock only. Is one a better option? 

[silverbullet]

silverbullet

i need to know what joyner you are looking.The type #is the number on the vin above the metal tag.

thanks Rich

silverbulletmotorsports.net 928 344 2117

[Travis]

I'd go with a rear locking differential. Especially if it's Just rear wheel drive

 

[silverbullet]

silverbullet

The only one with  the lock rear differential  is the commando 4x4 dump bed 

[Dan B]

This is just a quick summary of what I've read that drove my decision to buy a 4WD with locking diffs both front & rear.  I also decided against the CVT in favor of a clutch and 5-speed transmission (similar to a car).  If you're looking for a 2WD UTV, then it won't make much difference.  I wouldn't consider taking one of these into a situation where I might need a locking diff.  I personally would want a 4WD with both front & rear locking diffs independently selectable.  I want to have the option of having all four wheels available to get me out of trouble.  But even 4WD with full lockers won't guarantee anything.   Most prefer rear lockers because lockers on the steering axle leaves a lot to be desired on soft sand or dirt (tends to not go in the direction you want to go).

Front lockers are on UTVs that are FWD; rear lockers are on UTVs that are RWD.  Again, it's a matter of preference whether you want FWD or RWD.  Most are RWD.  Unlike cars, I don't know of any FWD UTVs.

[kenfain]

A locking differential works best if it's on the axle that bears the most weight. If you've got the option for both, and they lock independent of each other. Each having it's own switch, that'd probably be best. Otherwise go with the weight thing. That would maximize the traction.