i have a 2wd and i was thinking about locking up the rear end. now i am on a limited budget and am deciding on a selectable or just permanant. Does the all time locker have that big of an effect on mpg, handliling, etc. any suggestions? thank you

 

i dont no about mpg but your gonna have a hell of a time turning. a friend of mine welded his diffy and everytime he would turn the rear tires would hop and in the rain the back would always slide around. also the tires didnt last that long either

 

hahah ok thanks and nice pic

 

A "lunchbox" locker (Lock-Rite) will rachet around corners, but you have to coast around them. Otherwise, with your foot on the gas, both wheels will want to turn at the same time and either make the rear end chirp or slide around the corner... Depending on traction. A welded rear won't allow for any variation between the two rear tires. It's not suggested for a daily driver.

MPG should be about the same...

Parking in tight place will a little more difficult - rear tires to chirp alot...

A little more wear on the rear tires...

 

Detroit would be the only way to go (imo) but you could also get the Auburn electric locker. That way its more of a limited slip when left "open" then you flip a switch and bam, its all locked up.

Detroit locker will allow one wheel to spin when going around a turn, as long as you don't try to gas it around the turn. Its a great product and practically bullet proof. They will not lead to any odd tire wear problems and shouldn't be chirping going into a turn (MudTerrain: I assume you are reffering to the older model of detroit locker. The new ones allow for different wheel speeds.)
Here, right off their site:

"The legendary Detroit Locker began the revolution in performance differentials and still leads the industry today as an Eaton brand. The Detroit Locker is the most durable and dependable locking differential available.

The Detroit Locker maximizes traction by delivering 100% of the torque to both drive wheels. It is engineered to keep both wheels in a constant drive mode, and has the ability to automatically allow wheel speed differentiation when required. Applications are also available for C-Clip style axles.

No other performance differential has the reputation for delivering traction in mud, snow, rocks and on the track. The choice of professional racers and off-road enthusiasts around the world! The durability of the Detroit Locker is unmatched!"

Welded rear's, like already said, do not allow for either tire to spin at different speeds and can lead to breakage and tire wear. Go check out the site:
http://www.eaton.com/EatonCom/Produc...iteId=EatonCom

Personally, Its what i will be getting for my truck.

P.S. Also suggest looking into the EZLocker from detroit. Its just as strong, offers more tire speed variation and is a bit cheaper. Still a real high quality product.