Ranger Mods

Adding an Eaton up front. 2020 FX4 2.0l
Does anyone know if there is a signal input to the BCM (or one of the other dozen or so modules ) that would generate a front diff lock indicator icon on the dash.?

I would seriously doubt it as a front differential lock, electrical or pneumatic, isn't standard and also Ford strongly advise against fitting one ( they do with the 3.2 litre PX2 so I would assume that also goes for the 2.0 litre models) - just why I don't know but there you are, possibly because the drive shafts and CV joints will possibly fail, I would suggest possibly a small 3 mm dia LED mounted in the face of the dash, wired to your activation switch would do the trick but of course that would only tell you that power had been switched - it wouldn't tell you that the differential was actually locked. Can I ask why you think that you need it ?

I can see why manufacturers would avoid front diff locks. I've fitted ARB lockers to two previous Toyotas and although they are great when needed, they can be downright dangerous on hard ground with little to zero steering, especially at anything more than a crawl speed. I don't think it would take long before some wally decides to try and sue them.

In the Ranger I've been pretty happy with the traction control on the front so haven't really looked into it, but a decent locker up front would certainly be a bonus.

GerryP wrote: ↑Fri Nov 05, 2021 10:29 am I can see why manufacturers would avoid front diff locks. I've fitted ARB lockers to two previous Toyotas and although they are great when needed, they can be downright dangerous on hard ground with little to zero steering, especially at anything more than a crawl speed. I don't think it would take long before some wally decides to try and sue them.

In the Ranger I've been pretty happy with the traction control on the front so haven't really looked into it, but a decent locker up front would certainly be a bonus.

I'd heartily agree with that -- on my "old" Land Rover Discovery I fitted a Detroit "Tru-Lok" - a limited slip differential and while it gave all the advantages of a locked diff it was still a hassle turning round sharp corners.

No there is no front diff icon.

Thanks all + Stewart.

The front locker will only be used where needed. Used properly with due consideration and care, they can actually reduce stress and shock loading of the rest of the drive line and suspension. At least that's what I teach when I m working.

Cheers all.

D