Topic: front axle build

[rockhound]

I picked up a used '85 axle from toyotaboy.
I planned to replace mine because the hole for the axle seal is chamfered out, due to running with a busted Birf.
But now I think I'd like to use it to build, what I would consider ,the ultimate Toyota rock crawling front axle.
I started by cleaning and cutting off bracketry.
Next I need a high pinion diff housing, ARB or Detroit?. I'm leaning toward ARB, but Marlins front disconnect would serve the same purpose (steering), and Detroit is simple. 5:29's ( to match the 5:29 rears), 30 spline Longs, knuckle rebuild kit with studs, Land cruiser rotors and IFS calipers,, gusset stops and housing .
Pics to post of build as it progresses.
Then once it's done I can pull mine apart and have the damage repaired hopefully. And I'll have a spare.
Any thoughts, suggestions or encouragement are greatly appreciated. 

[mudmaster]

I'd go with the ARB

[RHG]

  Sounds like a project! I think you have good plans for a beefy toy axle.

[fzj40]

I'd go with a Toyota electric locker.

[Duffil]

I'd go with the ARB

X2...I like the fact that it is selectable, while the detroit is not...easier on the front end, I think.

[toybuilt]

I love ARB air lockers, thats the only locker that I will use in the front.

[rockhound [OP]]

Hey, thanks for the input. 
Originally, I planned on ARB. Then I thought about Marlin's front disconnect. That makes a front locker selectable.
ARB has plumbing and needs an air source,also much pricier. Detroit is self contained.
Which one is stronger? 
I'm running lockers front and rear now, and I can tell you it is impossible to turn the damn thing locked.

[Duffil]

Hey, thanks for the input.
Originally, I planned on ARB. Then I thought about Marlin's front disconnect. That makes a front locker selectable.
ARB has plumbing and needs an air source,also much pricier. Detroit is self contained.
Which one is stronger?
I'm running lockers front and rear now, and I can tell you it is impossible to turn the damn thing locked.

it sort of makes it selectable...when you put it in 2Xlow, its just that...low TWO WHEEL DRIVE.  With an ARB, you at least have some torque being transferred up front, until you hang a wheel off of something.  Actually, I think you are thinking more in line with a twin-stick, which would give you 2Xlow, whereas the disco box would still be a pregnant dog to turn if you put it in front only. 

[rockhound [OP]]

OK.
ARB, disengaged, is the same as open front diff, right. 3wheel drive.
Front Detroit locker, with front drive disconnect...2whl drive.
Advantage, ARB.

[Duffil]

yeah, and it'll still steer like a tank, cuz the front is locked up.

[Hyena]

Detriot will break if you break a birf or inner axle, maybe even if you break a hub.  ARB's will hold up to that abuse.  Go either ARB or electric locker.

[rockhound [OP]]

Thanks Hyena, it looks like my first instinct was right on. ARB it is.
Now where is that write up about IFS hubs to widen the track? You know, to match the width of the 86+ rear axle I'm running, so I can toss the 1 1/2 spacers I have now. Don't you still need spacers with that set-up?

[SloCrawler]

Ifs hub conversion, was lookin for it too.