Cost to install and Diff lock.

[adeehalasa]

Hello, I am new to jeeping and I just got my 2016 wrangler. I am looking to install a real diff E-lock and I was wondering if anyone can advice regarding the best E-lock and what is the average cost. thank you.

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[Tech Tim]

First you need to know if you have a Dana 35 (M200) or Dana 44 (M220) rear axle.

Eaton E-Locker for the Dana 44 M220 rear axle:
https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/lockers/14234-1-eaton-d44-elocker-differential

You'll also want an install kit:
https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/...ana-44-master-overhaul-kit-w-d44-upgrade-rear

How are you going to actuate the locker? Are you looking to match the OE Rubicon switch set-up or something different.

For labor, figure around 4-6 hours for the locker install and then maybe as short as an hour up to 4-5 hours for running the wiring and whatever switch set-up you go with.

 

[adeehalasa]

thank you sir for your prompt response . I am not sure what axle I have but I will talk to my mechanic about this. In your opinion charging $ 3500.00 for labor and part is fair?
I am not sure what switched I will have but The Rubicon switches will be a good idea.

 

[Maverick909]

typically a locker cost about 1000 bucks plus the install kit with bearings, shims etc. its a couple hundred bucks. adding the switch and wire would be a couple hundred more. plus the label for all the install stuff. Depending on the shop maybe 2500 bucks would be my guess

 

[QwikKotaTx]

thank you sir for your prompt response . I am not sure what axle I have but I will talk to my mechanic about this. In your opinion charging $ 3500.00 for labor and part is fair?
I am not sure what switched I will have but The Rubicon switches will be a good idea.

Seems a bit high unless they are swapping out the gears too but these need to be done in pairs. Front and rear diff ratio needs to be the same.

 

[GrayWolf.Overland]

While you are in there.. Please re-gear to 4.56

 

[adeehalasa]

thank you

 

[DesertsJL]

If it were me I'd install Eaton Truetrac's front and rear with the correct gears for your tire size and call it a day. No thinking, no messing around with wiring or plumbing, and they put way less stress on your drivetrain. Unless you NEED lockers, limited slips are the way to go.

 

[Tech Tim]

E-Locker - $1400.00
Install Kit - $300.00
Labor - $800.00 to 1200.00-ish
Total so far: $2900.00 on the high end.

The big Q is what they are doing for a switch set-up?

Something simple like an aftermarket switch would add very little $$$$.

An sPOD (which would be a great add-on and easy to install) could add $900.00+:
https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/switch-panels/bx-tsb-jl-spod-bantamx-touchscn

 

[adeehalasa]

that is very helpful, I do have the SPOD operating the lights and the air compressor. I will ask if they can add the switch to it in order to operate the locker too.

 

[rcadden]

Hello, I am new to jeeping and I just got my 2016 wrangler. I am looking to install a real diff E-lock and I was wondering if anyone can advice regarding the best E-lock and what is the average cost. thank you.

Glad you got great answers - this is a good community of really smart people.

HOWEVER, I do want to point out that the 2016 would be a "JK" model, and this is a "JL" forum. For the most accurate advice from people who own/know JKs, you might jump over to https://wranglerjkforum.net/

You're obviously welcome here, but just wanted to ensure you're in the right place as you get deeper into your journey. The JK and JL have some similarities (and many members here previously owned JKs), but they also have some big differences and it could get confusing for you if you're trying to work on your JK using JL tips.

 

[BajaDesigns]

that is very helpful, I do have the SPOD operating the lights and the air compressor. I will ask if they can add the switch to it in order to operate the locker too.

What style E-locker did you go with? SPOD is in-house with Baja Designs so the question can reach them much faster.
Best,
Brandon

 

[adeehalasa]

that is very helpful, I do have the SPOD operating the lights and the air compressor. I will ask if they can add the switch to it in order to operate the locker too.

What style E-locker did you go with? SPOD is in-house with Baja Designs so the question can reach them much faster.
Best,
Brandon

Hello Brandon, So far I am still looking. I live in palm springs CA , and I need to look for a local mechanic.

 

[BajaDesigns]

Hello Brandon, So far I am still looking. I live in palm springs CA , and I need to look for a local mechanic.

From what I have been told most SPOD units can run the E locker by just cutting out the E lockers relay from the harness and running the positive and negative into an inlet on the unit. The only time you will need to purchase something is if you are doing an air locker.
Best,
Brandon

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