Detroit Locker Sound

[PHARAOHDISCO]

I have a Detroit locker in my rear differential. Many times when moving from standstill whether in the reverse direction or forward direction, after a few seconds my locker makes a loud metallic sound "clunk" and the vehicle shudders slightly and it feels as if a strong spring has released itself. Is this sound normal?

 

[Steve Rupp]

Well, it's not really normal but it is common. My first DT acted that way and from what I understand, some may be built tighter than others. After blowing up that one, my second one works perfectly. Never had that "CLUNK". You may want to call the place you bought it from and see what they say about exchanging it.

 

[Disco Mike]

Tarek,
How old is your Detroit? The newer ones are much quieter and there are ways to make then nearlt silent. What oil are you using in your diffs? If you go to a 140wt gear oil with a GL6 rating and add 1/2 qt. of Lucas oil stabilizer to it you won't even notice it. I have been doing that for the last 1 1/2 years on mine and it works much better. Good luck,
Mike J.

 

[Peterb]

Check your tire pressure all around the truck, If one is 10 lbs low, it can cause this prob, as well, change that diff fluid regularly!!!!! I have had a detriot for 2 yrs in a d1, Typically, i have 1 tire low on pressure whenever the locker acts up!
Peter.

 

[PHARAOHDISCO]

My Detroit locker is 7 months old, bought it from Ashcroft Transmissions in the UK. Actually they supplied the complete rear differential with the 4.1 gears. I am using a Mobil 90W oil. Does everybody use a 140W gear oil in their differentials equipped with a Detroit locker ?