question about bruiser diffs

[topforcein]

Got to the axle stage of the build today.

In the instructions it says to install the diff lock pin tight then return one full turn.

It says further on in the book that continuous running with the different locked it reduces traction and can cause damage to the differentials

Know I plan on installing the slipper clutch and 4 piece wheels.

My question is how does everyone else run and what's the differance between locked and unlocked different.

[Saito2]

Where and how do you plan to run it? The original Bruiser did not have diffs at all. On pavement, I'd say go unlocked. A locked diff here will increase turning radius, possibly induce stress and increase to chance of rollovers. On dirt, especially with the Bruiser rock-hard tires, locked diffs can really help from getting stuck. Stress is reduced because the tires can slid around on the slipperier surface (since, during a turn, the inner wheel travels less than the outer). If you intend on light on/off road running, stay unlocked. If you intend on mostly off road running (and a little more serious) lock the rear diff. If you intend on slow speed crawling and taking on some serious obstacles, lock both front and rear.

[Nitomor]

I've left mine both open. If you're mainly going to run in low 4wd or low 2wd and as above for crawling etc then lock them. You'll want the protection of the slipper clutch if you do go this route I'd expect.

[topforcein]

Tbh I last thing I will want to hapen is a roll over (I know it will probably happen) but I don't want it to.

I haven't thought about where I will run it as there ain't many challenging place near me

Nitomor sorry to ask a stupid question but can you explain "I'll want the protection of the slipped clutch if I go this route" its my first true 4x4 and this is new to me

[Nitomor]

If you lock the diffs there is no give in the axle, so if one wheel is blocked the other can't spin away the power, so they will both put strain on the gearbox. The slipper clutch will allow a safety vent for the power, instead of all the gearbox being locked up until something gives, the slipper clutch will slip so that all that energy has an escape outlet, if that makes sense.

It's the same to a degree with the beadlock rims, it is advised that the slipper clutch is used with these rims, because with the normal rims, the tyre will act as a slipper in so far as the tyre would likely slip on the rim before something in the gearbox lets go. So you won't necessarily need a slipper if you don't fit the beadlock option rims, but without the option rims, there is conversely little point in locking the diffs!

[topforcein]

Yep it makes sense thanks.

I have got the hop up option wheels to go with the slipper clutch and intend to use them as they look better to me

As they have a deeper dish on them.

So it will be better to lock the different with the clutch and wheels combo then?

[Nitomor]

Depends on what you're doing with it, I won't be locking mine. There's no point locking them unless you have beadlocks and then the slipper to protect the gearbox. The locked diff is for serious off roading. Not so good for speed or bashing and it will roll easier when cornering, especially in high 2wd. Great for crawling and tackling obstacles I guess.

My opinion is based on theory, I haven't tried it myself, but give it a go and see what you think, it's easy enough to reverse.