Rear E-Locker in Snow...Yay or Nay?

[Sherwood4Runner]

Snowboard/Ski season is approaching quickly (FINALLY!). In the past I have used 4-Hi when driving up the mountain, but I was wondering if there is any advantage to locking up the rear in addition to 4-Hi when on the packed or <6inches of fresh snow. (I just did the "grey wire" ahem "blue wire" mod a few months ago).

Part of me says that it would not be a good idea to lock up because the rear end would be more inclined to slide out, and that it would be better to only use 4-Hi to allow one wheel per axle to slip (so the wheel on the other side can hold traction).

But the other part of me is wondering if there is any actual traction gained by engaging the locker in these conditions?

Can anyone share thoughts or experiences in this area?

 

[Bearded Cabbage]

Nope, use it only if you get stuck.

 

[KidVermicious]

Locker won't do you any good on an icy road. If anything, it'll ensure that both wheels break traction, instead of just one.

 

[Stick Figure]

I would leave it unlocked in the snow unless you get stuck and need it to get out, the locker is really working against you any time you need to turn.

 

[brian2sun]

I agree, leave it unlocked unless it's deep or steep.

 

[Elton H]

ya rear lock in the snow can be iffy but its soo much fun on a icy road go like 10 with it locked not in 4wd punch it yee haw

 

[noneckrex]

my fathers truck is electrically locked when you engage 4WD and its not that great in the snow. its not bad either just thought it would have done more good than it did.

 

[badattitude]

Nay, open diff for snow unless you are stuck

 

[flatboy]

I have a Richmond locker in my 2wd Taco which is locked pretty much all the time your on the gas and it has scared me afew times in the winter. Its great on the street for me in the summer but needs alot of respect in the winter.

I'd say don't use it unless your stuck or going slow.

shayne

 

[Sherwood4Runner]

Great thanks for all the feedback!

 

[Dous]

Like others said definitely unlocked. If you even tried to go around a corner, the rear end would kick out. One wheel has to turn faster than the other, since that can't happen, something has to give.

 

[Gerdo]

Locked in 2wd in the snow is the best way to do donuts!
Not that I would ever recommend anyone doing this.