The Detroit Locker automatically locks the wheels together under the power and unlocks when cornering, ensuring constant traction but can be less smooth on-road. In contrast, the ARB Air Locker is air-actuated, offering the flexibility of an open differential for regular driving and a locked differential for challenging terrains, controlled via an onboard compressor, providing smoother operation in diverse conditions.
Understanding these differences is crucial for off-road enthusiasts and performance drivers. If you prioritize a maintenance-free solution and constant traction without the need for driver input, the Detroit Locker is your go-to choice. However, if you desire more control and versatility, switching between a locked and open differential as per the terrain, the ARB Air Locker would be an ideal fit. Your selection ultimately depends on your driving needs and the environments you frequently encounter.
Detroit locker Vs ARB locker: In a Table
ARB is the best companion to ride snow or damping surfaces instead of Detroit lockers. They both are long-lasting options. The price is the main concern between Detroit Locker and ARB. Detroit lockers can work in both forward and reverse directions.
| Key factors | Detroit locker | ARB locker |
| Manufacturer | Detroit Locker | ARB |
| Weight | 24 pounds | 25 pounds |
| Axle type | Dana 35 and 44 axles | Dana 60 |
| Locker type | Limited slip | Selectable air |
| Spline count | 29-35 spline | 30-35 spline |
| Fitment | Ideal for racing cars, rally cars, trail rigs, full-size trucks, and daily drivers, and ABS compatible. | All 4WD vehicles |
| Made of | Rigorous and heavy-duty materials. | aerospace-grade high-quality-alloy steel |
| Best for | Automatic torque for both forward and reverse traction | Ensure solid and durable locking mechanisms. |
| Pros | Smooth, quiet, and automatic operation | Prevent harmful oils from the airline. |
| Cons | Slightly clunky even in fresh conditions. | It takes some time to engage with an older vehicle. |
| Warranty | 5-year warranty | 2-years warranty |
Detroit Locker vs. ARB: Major Differences
As the locker is such an important aspect of any vehicle to optimize traction and overall performance, it is key to have enough knowledge about it. So here is a detailed discussion of them which will help you to come to a conclusion.
Design
Detroit differential locking option has a unique design and operating characteristics. It is a limited-slip differential that works based on gear separation forces. It has a biased function to work in both forward and reverse directions.
On the contrary, ARB has a simple and sophisticated design. It is specially designed for all 4WD vehicles to offer smooth driving in off-roading conditions.
Improvising Traction
In terms of traction, both show their class. They offer the highest traction in different ways. When it comes to the Detroit diffs, it is pretty satisfactory. A selectable electronic differential enables greater traction on rocky trails, rough terrain, or other challenging places.
Inversely, ARB provides 100% torque on both wheels when locked. By providing the needed power to the wheel, it can maximize the traction ability. The ability to tackle the toughest terrain is incredible. It is called the world’s best traction production locking system.
Durability
Both are made to last. With high-quality and rigorous outer finish ensures durability and performance. Both are made of high-quality materials to provide long-term benefits and last for a long time.
They are made of stainless steel with an excellent polish finish to prevent corrosion and liquid substances. ARB is made from aerospace-grade high-quality alloy steel to ensure durability.
Performance
The Detroit limited-slip is a clutchless and all-gear-driven differential to take you to the next level of driving. It is a universal fit, with 29 spline axles, smooth actuating, automatic torque biasing, and clutchless differential that provide smooth transfer for better performance.
In contrast, ARB adds tremendous value to performance without affecting drivability and wearout. It is tested thoroughly in over 80 countries to ensure the utmost performance.
Working mechanism
The working mechanisms of both lockers are completely different as their brand is also unique. As a helical gear limited slip locking system, Detroit Truetrac transmits the power to the wheel while ensuring maximum traction. It easily controls the rotation of the lost traction at the highest traction wheel even though one wheel loses traction.
ARB, on the other hand, works with the pressure of air that ranges from 70 Psi to 120 Psi. It is an actuating electromagnetic solenoid. The open and close valve allows the locker to lock and unlock. Air comes from the air source to down the airline. Finally, it goes between o-rings into the air chamber.
Fully-locked option
Detroit is a 100% locked locking unit where there are both locks and unlock options in ARB. When the wheel is spinning hard on the highway or off-road, Detroit provides significant power and locks the wheels immediately. And the torque will increase incredibly.
Besides, ARB is an air-activated and selectable locker that works as an open differential when unlocked. It also provides 100% torque to increase acceleration and supply power on both wheels.
Costs
After a lot of research, the most significant difference between them is their price. By the way, the ARB is just as great, and its price is about $200 more than the Detroit Locker.
Detroit Truetrac Differential Locker is Best for Off-roading Conditions
Detroit Truetrac locker is a well-known locking differential. It provides you with a fantastic driving experience from the high hill to the lower end. No matter whether you are in a sludgy area or the toughest terrain, you feel like you are on a flat surface.
Providing an extreme level of traction makes your ride easier than you think. Fits with both C-clip and non-C-clip semi-float front and rear axles.
Arb Selectable Locking System is Best for Snowy Conditions
One of the most discussed and sensational locking systems is the ARB air locker which has an air-actuated and selectable design. Perfect off-roading traction, proper balancing, supplying enough power on both wheels, and air-activated pneumatic locking mechanisms are possible by the ARB selectable locker. It is a versatile option for those who love to ride in snowy or rocky trail conditions.
Conclusion
There is no denying that both lockers are strong and durable. Also, they have balanced performance and extraordinary traction ability. The real difference is in their price, design, and working principles. If you like to drive aggressively, you can go to the Detroit locker. Otherwise, you can buy an ARB locker for convenience.