New Jeep w/ Detroit Locker load CLUNKs

[softwiz]

Hello,

Just bought a 2004 Jeep Unlimited with about 14K of mods on it. It has a Dynatrac rear axle with a Detroit Locker, a 5.5" Rubicon Express lift and 33" tires.

First thing I noticed is that the rear differential is quite loud. It clunks when you let off lightly the throttle and when you reapply throttle to re-accelerate.

When I make a right hand turn I can hear a clicking noise coming from the differential. Doesn't do it when turning left.

I hear a slight whine when I let off the throttle as well. Kinda sounds like the transfer case.

It also clunks going between forward and reverse. The drive shaft turns about 1/4 of a turn.

The clunks get worse after the differential has warmed up.

This puppy has a 3000 mile warranty for the modified parts so I want to make sure this is normal for a locker. I've read that lockers can be loud but this one sounds EXTRA loud to me.

Anyone have experience with a Detroit Locker?

Thanks

 

[VegasAnthony]

:speepin:

 

[VegasAnthony]

I guess we know why the guy sold it

 

[LBEXJ]

The "play" (1/4 turn) in the Detroit is normal ... it is part of the design which allows it to unlock when no power is applied to it. You made no mention which transmission you run, but this "play" is more noticeable with a manual than auto. You should not hear any clicking, however ... mine is silent other than hearing a few "pops" occasionally when it disengages under a slight load. Check both differentials for lubricant to make sure they are up to the proper level.

I cannot comment for certain about the "whine" you mentioned without hearing it, but a differential does whine a bit when engaged.

I can understand being a bit cautious whenever buying a modified Jeep ... in some ways it is more "comforting" when you make modifications yourself because: 1) you know how the vehicle ran before the mods and, 2) you know how the modifications were done.

Your Detroit sounds normal to me ... HTH and Good Luck.

Les

 

[ECKSJAY]

in some ways it is more "comforting" when you make modifications yourself because: 1) you know how the vehicle ran before the mods and, 2) you know how the modifications were done.

3) You know how the vehicle was treated after the mods were performed.

 

[StuckXJ]

Sounds like you may just need new u-joints. The detroit sounds normal to me.
-Steve D

 

[softwiz]

Thanks for all the information guys (except for VegasAnthony that is). I checked my U-Joints and they are fine. After an extensive day of reading about lockers, I'm convinced mine is just fine.

Thanks