The use of traction control is a much-talked-about topic when discussing off-road driving techniques. Knowing exactly when to enable and disable traction control is a vital consideration when off-roading, with the varying terrains encountered during Overlanding needing varying degrees of traction for successful handling and 4×4 performance.
Here, Drive details when you should and shouldn’t use traction control when off-roading:
“On surfaces like this — loose, dry rock — the car benefits from traction control remaining on… With the traction control left on, the car brakes the spinning wheel, which allows it to direct torque to the other wheels with traction. That then allows the Prado to gain momentum and climb the hill. In situations that involve sand, mud or river crossings, you would consider switching traction control off to allow continuous momentum.”
There are a number of traction aids that are designed to take the hard work out of accessing more or less traction both on and off-road. The Elocker is just one traction upgrade that makes perfect sense for serious off-roaders, but what is an Elocker? And how does it differ from an air locker? In this blog post, we answer these all-important questions!
What is an Elocker?
An Elocker, or Elocker differential as it is formally known, is an excellent addition to a 4WD vehicle. This handy upgrade is an electronic differential with net-forged gears that allow the 4×4 driver to access reliability, strength and traction as and when it is needed.
The Elocker first and foremost operates as an open differential, allowing the wheels of the 4×4 to turn independently from each other. The use of open differentials ensures optimum vehicle stability and traction control, and can even minimise excessive tyre wear and troublesome wheel hopping.
With an Elocker upgrade fitted however this open differential can convert into a 100% locked position at the touch of a button. With a full locker, you can gain more traction exactly when it is needed and enjoy 100% available torque to make your ride even more exhilarating.
Are Elockers and air lockers the same?
Whilst sporting a similar name and helping drivers alternate between open and locked differentials, this is where the similarities end when comparing Elockers and air lockers.
Elockers are electronic and use an electromagnet to lock and unlock the differentials as required. Air lockers use pneumatic pressure instead to achieve the same outcome, and rely on other components (such as a 12-volt power source and an air compressor) to do just that.
The push-button convenience of Elockers often makes them the first choice as aftermarket traction aids, but both Elockers and air lockers have their pros and cons.
Should I invest in an Elocker or air locker?
Whilst air lockers do require the addition of an air compressor and 12-volt power source to operate, they do ensure the immediate engagement that just isn’t possible with an Elocker. Air lockers can also be engaged at any speed, whereas Elockers should be engaged at speeds below 5mph.
Elockers tend to be more expensive due to the lengthy and expensive development and testing processes that have made the use of Elockers possible within the 4×4 market. Despite the added expense, the durability, reliability, and ease of the Elocker make it the ultimate traction upgrade for commercial and remote area use.
Whether you’re looking for an Elocker or air locker upgrade, you’ll find the premium aftermarket traction aids you need right here at 4×4 Works.
