Are you getting hazy at identifying the key differences between Auburn Gear Ected Max and Eaton E-Locker as well as selecting the ideal lock for your vehicle? Well, we have the answer, although a bit mixed bag.
Eaton E-Locker has an electromagnetic magnetic locking system that efficiently locks, whereas Auburn Gear Ected Max needs to be manually pressured to lock even though it’s electric.
Including the main difference in this article, we will also explore several other key factors that distinguish both of these locks. Let’s dive in.
Auburn Gear Ected Max Vs Eaton E-Locker: What Are The Differences?
Here is a short comparison table for Auburn Gear Ected Max and Eaton E-Locker to understand the main distinctions fast. However, to comprehend them in-depth, it is advised to keep reading the article.
| Factors | Auburn Gear Ected Max | Eaton E-Locker |
| Complete Full Axle Lock | Possible but requires additional pressure | Fairy Easy |
| Slip Rate | High | Low |
| Reliability | Average | High |
| Durability | Excellent | Average |
| Complexity To Operate | Moderately Easy | Hard |
Build Quality
The Auburn Gear Ected Max is made from heavy-duty 9310 heat-treated billet steel, whereas the Eaton E-Locker is made from an aluminum alloy.
This means that the Auburn Gear Ected Max will be heavier and more durable than the Eaton E-Locker. The Auburn Gear Ected Max also has a build quality superior to the Eaton E-Locker’s because it has been tested under extreme conditions (such as mud, sand, ice, etc.)
Moreover, the Eaton E Locker review can be summed up by its build material not being as enduring then one would like it to be; however, it has some notable advantages over auburn e locker.
What sets Eaton apart from auburn e locker is its lighter weight which comes from the built-in materials present in the locker. This is especially useful when fitting into tight spaces where weight becomes an issue and can be super effective in bad weather such as snow or rain.
Working Mechanism
Auburn Gear Ected Max and Eaton E-Locker are both gear locking differentials. They are basically a type of limited-slip differential that allows for one wheel to turn faster than the other but prevents both wheels from turning at different speeds at the same time.
Auburn Ected vs Eaton E-Locker can be seen as having nearly identical working mechanisms. For example, they both use a series of clutches inside the differential to lock up one set of gears while allowing another group to rotate freely (or at a slower rate).
To add more to this notion, another notable distinction between these two products is that Auburn uses an electrically-powered clutch system depending on external pressure, while Eaton relies entirely on LSD components.
Installation Difference
Auburn Gear Ected Max can be installed in about an hour and a half, depending on your skill level, whereas installing Eaton E-Locker takes about 2-3 hours.
The difference in time is due to the fact that Auburn Gear uses a planetary gear set as opposed to Eaton’s worm gear set.
This makes Auburn Gear easier to install because there are fewer parts involved in its construction and less assembly required.
Furthermore, installing the e-locker involves removing your current differential cover and replacing it with a new one with an internal connection for the wires that connect to your ignition system.
Best Suitability
Auburn Max is suitable for mud, sand, and ice. It is also ideal for rocky terrain and steep inclines.
However, it has a low engagement speed of 5 mph, which means it takes time for the locker to engage and lock up the tires.
This makes it challenging to use on pavement or smooth roads without turning your vehicle or going over bumps.
On the other hand, Eaton E-Locker is prominent for pavement because it engages quickly with only 1 mph of speed needed for engagement.
However, it doesn’t do well in muddy conditions or sand because it doesn’t lock up quickly enough to prevent slippage when turning corners or going over bumps.
Yet, Eaton is ideal for snowy as well as rainy conditions.
Price Difference
In brief, Eaton’s E-Locker is significantly more expensive than Auburn Gear Ected Max.
For example, the Eaton comes in at $1500- $1,900, while Auburn Gear Ected Max is priced from $482 to even as high as $1,431.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Eaton E lockers good?
Eaton E lockers can be used for both short and long-term storage. They are designed to be easy to use and have a sleek design. Although they come at a hefty price, it’s totally worth it as it offers more features and less complicated maintenance.
How do you engage Eaton E-Locker?
Eaton E-Locker is an electronically-controlled locking mechanism that allows you to engage the differential. The interior pushbutton operates as a remote control for the positive signal, activating the relay to supply power to the locker’s electromagnetic magnet.
What is better Eaton E-locker or Auburn Gear Ected Max Locker?
Price-wise, Auburn is the rational choice against Eaton as the higher-end of an Auburn locker matches the cost of a lower-end Eaton. However, one should go for Eaton E-Locker for more versatility and sure-fire locking capability.
What Should Be Your Pick?
From the above discussion about auburn gear ected max vs eaton e-locker guide, it is clear that both of these lockers are some of the most popular brands today. But deciding which to select for your vehicle ultimately depends on your specific needs and requirements.
That said, the Auburn Gear Ected Max Locker is a heavy-duty automatic locking differential for trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps (see also ‘How To Take The Doors Off A Jeep‘). It was designed specifically for off-road use and can be used with multiple types of vehicles, including 4WD trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps.
On the other hand, If you look for something as effective but with more features and less maintenance, there is no alternative to Eaton E-Locker. This electronic locker uses a magnet to control the locking mechanism and ensure smooth operation. So even if you don’t know how to use it properly, it’s simple to lock it successfully every time.
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