Ryna put in my locker last month and, well he says its normal for it to make a popping noise because i guess its engaging or something, im not too bright on these things and i was wondering why exactly it would be doing that. lol

if anyone knows feel free to post back, thanks.

nicole.

what kind of locker? when does it make the noise?

The first thing you must realize is that 4x4 vehicles are really two wheel drive; one front wheel turns and one rear wheel turns. Lockers basically lock the axle in so that both tires on the same axle turn. This significantly improves traction. You have an auto locker, which is always working (vs a manual locker which you turn on and off with a switch at your convinience).

When traveling straight or both tires moving at the same speed, the auto locker binds both wheels together so they turn with equal torque. When you turn (especially on pavement) your outside tire needs to turn faster than your inside tire so the locker disengages so the wheels can turn at different speeds. If your locker did not disengage, your outside tire would drag causing tire and axle wear.

When you hear that "ratcheting" or "popping" sound, that is the locker doing its job. With most auto lockers, over time they will get a little quieter as they break in.

Road manners do suffer a little with an auto locker (especially on such a light vehicle), but it is something you can get used to.

Not a lot of lockers available for the Samurai, so I assume you have a lockright. It is normal to pop when turning but if it is doing it when going straight, it is set up wrong.