The jeepfan.com 1978 CJ-5 spent a few years in retired status and it was decided to bring it back to light-active duty. This meant some trail rides but nothing extreme, the goal is to prepare the Jeep for some light recreational off road use, preservation is kept in mind. Everyone knows CJ’s aren’t getting more plentiful and saving the species is gaining popularity.
When the Jeep was retired much of the serious off road equipment was removed; air lockers, on board air, winch, and other stuff made the list. Basically the Jeep returned to summertime joyriding and ice cream duty.
The jeepfan.com 78 CJ was going to be a main character in our our upcoming book on building and modifying 72-86 CJs (now available!) which was a perfect excuse to plan out a new project. After a new Old Man Emu lift, BFG Tires, and US Mags Wheels we moved to adding some extra traction. Since this Jeep is on light duty a Lock Right automatic locker, which we picked up from Quadratec was a good, inexpensive add.
PowerTrax Lock Right Locker with Performance Cross Shaft for 76-86 Jeep
The Lock Right is about the simplest locker that can be installed. It’s comprised of a few basic parts which allow it to lock and unlock based upon load being applied. The driving behavior that results from the installation of one of these is less than perfect but off road performance is where they shine. Throttle and tire size over 33-35 can be dangerous to a Lock Right since it doesn’t replace the differential carrier – they can take pretty much and long life is a matter of remembering that it’s there.
Installation of a Lock Right can be done by most in their home garages with normal tools and can take about 2-3 hours. Most AMC 20 rear ends can be fitted with a Lock Right without removal of the carrier and pulling out one axle shaft.
Remove the old spiders
With the Jeep properly supported remove the differential cover bolts and pry open the cover to drain the gear oil.
With the wheels removed unbolt the driver side axle shaft retaining bolts. This may be different depending on the type of axles in the CJ. This one is equipped with one piece rear axles. Pull the axle about 2-3 inches out of the housing. Loosening the brake line to allow it to be pulled without being disconnected. Don’t judge on the leaky axle seal.
Using a long punch drive the differential cross shaft retaining pin out of the housing to allow the shaft to be removed. It’s not necessary to drive it all the way out.
Rotate the gears to allow the spider gears to be removed followed by removing the side gears. Keep track of the shims and bushings.
Installing the Lock Right
Inspect the Lock Right parts and start by installing the couplers with the original bushings. Insert the spacers inside the driver with the shoulder side toward the cross shaft. Place the pins within the driver and install the drivers into the carrier. Attempt to keep the drivers, pins, and spacers from falling out.
Slide the pin across to couple with the other driver. Install the springs through the openings and using a small screwdriver push them into place. The spring will seat securely in the opening. Carefully rotate the differential to install all the springs.
Align the locker and/or carrier to allow the cross shaft to be installed. Gently tap the roll pin back in place.
Take some time to clean up the housing to remove old oil or debris. Clean the old gasket off and prepare to seal it all up. Before installing the cover push the driver side axle back into place, make sure everything moves freely.
It’s a good idea to mount the wheels and with the help of a friend test the locker’s function. Use some gasket maker and install a new gasket. Place the cover on and bolt it up.
Fill the axle with oil and check for leaks. Take the Jeep for a test drive and note the locker’s operation. A ratcheting noise when cornering is expected and strange behavior when driving, especially shifting gears on a short wheel base Jeep is normal and needs to be anticipated.
Took the opportunity to give the locker a work out at Rausch Creek Off Road Park and it performed flawlessly. It’s been nearly 10 years since this Jeep was off road and the last time it was running air lockers. It was nice to not have to think about the locker and its constant presence made the going on the lose rocks smooth. For the price it’s a deal, the casual off road use this locker will see will serve this Jeep for years to come.
PowerTrax Lock Right Locker with Performance Cross Shaft for 76-86 Jeep at Quadratec
