About 5+ years actually.

 

They have had 4.88 for a while for the 8.25 but I still went with the 4.56's because of the weak pinion on the 4.88's and there are fine with my 35" tires. All things considered they were the best choice as I would rather break an axle than a gear set.

 

One thing to consider before you spend money re-gearing your 8.25, there are not many selectable lockers for that axle. If you think you will want a rear locker in the future you might consider an axle swap before you re-gear. I geared my 8.25 with 4.56 gears and recently found out about the locker issue

 

What brand were you having a problem finding a selectable from. Arb Eaton and ox all have selectable for the 8.25.

 

No ELockers for the 8.25.

 

Woops. Thought there was.

 

Does anyone really use a selectable in the rear, very few I would guess? Personally I can see no real need for one most either use an auto locker or spool there.

 

I have an lsd because daily and a front locker will get me over anything the lsd can't.

 

Yes, I had an elocker in both axles.

Ran a Power Trax No-slip in my original axle (8.25).

Preferred the elockers.

 

I'm running the Detroit true trac. Has already saved the jeep from totaling once and a few smaller incidents other times.

 

Why the selectable in the rear for off road use over what I asked and I have zero issues with an auto locker on the highway in any weather in the rear.

 

I prefer open for winter driving. Think about it, you're not putting power down but you do maintain more lateral control when one tire slips.

 

I first started using auto lockers in the mid 70's on DD 1 ton trucks in CO.

 

I only said I preferred it, if someone is used to and drives for the conditions it doesn't really matter. However, that doesn't change the fact that if you gunned it going around a corner with an open diff vs an LSD you're more likely to go in circles with the LSD/locker.

I may also be biased because I like putting one tire in the slush and blasting it into anyone tailgating me.

 

You don't do circle if you practice and learn how to drive sideways. It's one of my favorite directions to travel.