Rear automatic locker troubles

[PlanetExpress]

I picked up my 1987 4runner about a month ago, it had sat for quite some time. Since then i have heard, very infrequently a popping sound coming from the rearend. Knowing that it has a locker i dismissed this as normal. However this morning i heard apocalyptic destruction banging coming from the rearend when i turn. i honestly was worried about driving it. I also experienced some "torque steer" (pulling to the right at hard throttle).

I drained the fluid from the diff which was quite low, and put some lucas 80w90 in. Determined that i have a left axle seal leak (pretty bad) The noise is not as bad but the banging is still there at turns and the torque steering is still there (however now it feels as though the right tire tries to catch up so i have some very interesting moments while driving)

My question is, are these symptoms normal for an automatic locker? This is my first vehicle with a locked rear differential so i am a bit worried that i grenaded the thing pulling out of a parking lot somehow.

 

[KidVermicious]

Nope, that's not at all normal. The occasional popping and clicking during a turn is normal. A very occasional bang as it lets go is normal. A little bit of torque steer if you stab the throttle or let up abruptly is normal. Apocalyptic destruction is not. It sounds like it might not be wanting to unlock.

You'll have to drain the oil to fix the axle seal, take that opportunity to pull the diff and see what's wrong with the locker. Post pics. What locker is it, do you know?

 

[PlanetExpress]

I dont know which brand the locker is, wish i did. The fluid that came out of the diff was not the color i am accustomed to seeing, almost a rust color, there was also a small amount of rust chips on the drain plug. If the locker had not previously been working correctly and somehow today began working that would explain the sudden change in performance.

I took the vehicle on a test drive around the neighborhood and did not hear any banging. If i end up pulling the diff i will definitely post pics.

Thanks for the quick reply it was very helpful.

 

[03T4RGG]

Well I pulled everything apart today, the locker is shot. Can't determine the brand but there are large chunks of metal jammed in there. My ring and pinion are good though

 

[03T4RGG]

 

[PlanetExpress]

Ordered a Yukon Grizzly locker from Jegs, should be in tomorrow. Tracked down a couple of new carrier bearings and i am going to reuse the old races.

 

[RiFF RaFF]

Ordered a Yukon Grizzly locker from Jegs, should be in tomorrow. Tracked down a couple of new carrier bearings and i am going to reuse the old races.

You're going to like your Grizzly. I have one in my 93 and the sucker is bullet proof. I installed mine along with chrome-molly axles, and all seals.

 

[PlanetExpress]

[MENTION=75331]RiFF RaFF[/MENTION]

I checked out your build thread a couple weeks ago i really like what you have done with your 2nd gen! That 80 series isn't half bad either. I've heard allot of good things about the grizzly locker through the board, really increased my confidence in the purchase.

 

[RiFF RaFF]

[MENTION=75331]RiFF RaFF[/MENTION]

I checked out your build thread a couple weeks ago i really like what you have done with your 2nd gen! That 80 series isn't half bad either. I've heard allot of good things about the grizzly locker through the board, really increased my confidence in the purchase.

You choose - wisely!

I'll be hitting the trails again this Sunday, and the Grizzly will be getting another work-out.

I haven't updated my build thread in a while, but I also installed on-board air, and an ARB locked in the front diff. It's nice having an air tank to re-inflate the tires, and the front locker.

Time to get off my butt, and update my build thread.

As for your locker - while the axles are out - check the bearings, and seals carefully. It's worth the money to get the rebuild kit along with the locker. Especially the pinion bearing/seal.

Good luck with your build! Looking forward to seeing some pics.

Here's a pic of the ARB locker --