The 300 hundred dollar locker is what is called a lunch box locker. It is installed in the carrier of the differential. ( it is put in place of the spider gears )
The 600 - 900 dollar lockers are full lockers meaning they replace the carrier in the differential and are considered stronger than the lunch box types.
The 900 dollar end of that would be selectable lockers.

 

Lunch box is strong enough for me, if i was going to do anything really serious id but in a D44 and convert to 4x4. Its just got to be strong enough to get me through the mud and help me a bit on the trails that ive only got one rear tire on the ground.

 

Your 8.25 29 spline is so close to being as strong as a Dana 44 that would be a waste of time to change it. If you want stronger than your 8.25 get a Ford 8.8. ( or buy some 29 spline Superior shafts they are about 35 percent stronger than stock so the 8.25 would then probably be stronger than a Dana 44 ) I also think the lunch box is the way for you to go, I was just giving xj_maniac the info on the different kinds of lockers.

 

Yeah, the Aussie would be great...

And for around $300, thats a great deal!

 

hmm, then aussie it is, and i like the sound a ratchet makes so thats a plus