If i put a atv locker in my front diff how would it turn when i have it in 2wd? would it still be like its in 4wd? i want to get a locker for it but if it is gonna turn like a locked 4wd when i have it in 2wd then i don't know if i want to get it. any help would be appreciated.

 

Mud600:

The Grizzly locker will steer harder in 2wd than 4wd. Your Grizzly will be locked at all times, 2wd/4wd. The Grizzly Locker is the only model that steers this way. Honda, Kawasaki and other Yamahas are not affected the same as the Grizzly. Go to www.atvlockers.com and consult the manufacture about your concerns.

Henry

 

i don't understand why it would steer harder in 2wd than 4wd.

 

The locker is going to affect all atv's the same except the ones that are 2wd/4wd selectable. But even in 2wd the front tires are going to be locked together, which will force both front tires to rotate at the same speed even in turns. On loose terrain the stiff steering is bearable, but not comfortable. I hope this is clear.
Summary: (1)4wd all time - with locker - stiffest steering (2) 4wd/2wd in 4wd same as above (3) 4wd/2wd in 2wd a little better.
The 2wd selection will allow the front tires to slip some (easier steering) as opposed to when in 4wd the front tires will rotate same as rear (harder steering).


[This message has been edited by RobAlford (edited 09-01-1999).]

 

With both front wheels spooled (locked) together, I would think steering should be harder than with a functioning differential on all quads, not Grizzlies alone.

In a turn, the outer tire covers a greater distance than the inner tire; when a locker forces the tires to turn at the same speed, the stress of ground slip transfers to the handlebars and to the drivetrain (if in 4WD).

The rear wheels of most quads (exception: the Kawasaki Bayou 300 2WD) are spooled; this arrangement accounts for some turning resistance, but not as much as from pivoting front wheels locked together.

How much harder is a locker-equipped quad's steering than one with a functioning differential? I don't know, but obviously some are willing to pay the price of increased steering effort for the traction benefits offered by a locker. However, unless the locked quad is a Suzuki King Quad or Quadrunner 250 4X4, changing your mind about a locked front end involves considerable work.

Anyone ever defeated by sticky goo has wished for a locker at that moment. Why don't ATV manufacturers offer locked front ends? My guess: Concern about product liability regarding high-speed handling characteristics (major); concern about drivetrain stress (minor). Stock Suzuki front ends can only be locked in super-low transmission range where high speeds cannot be attained; Arctic Cat does not provide controls and linkage permitting engagement of the differential locker, although the capability exists in every Arctic Cat 300 front end.

Bombardier's progressive automatic locker may provide some "best of both worlds" combination of easy-steering differential action and spooling when additional traction is required.

Polaris' spooled locking hubs have been amply discussed previously; 'nuff said!

Tree Farmer