Maxidrive locker - how to assess condition?

[Warb]

I've recently been given a MaxiDrive locking Salisbury rear axle. It was removed from a Series 3 when the vehicle was scrapped, but judging from the (screw in) wheel studs it was originally from a IIa. Apparently the vehicle failed rego and became a farm runabout, and when the engine died it was scrapped but some "good bits" were saved. It was some time ago, but the owner believes the MaxiDrive was fully functional when removed.

I would like to use this axle, but would rather not spend time fitting it only to discover that it's wrecked.

So far I know:

everything turns freely by hand, with no nasty noises or rough spots

the oil in it looks OK, not "glittery" or black

there is a tiny amount of rotational free play, if it were a Rover diff I would be happy to use it


Is there anything else I can check? I have no idea how much vacuum is required to operate the locking mechanism, but I'm considering connecting it to my vacuum brake bleeder to see if it locks......

[rrturboD]

Great find.
I take it that as a Maxidrive, you need vacuum to activate the lock etc.
You can use air pressure, but make sure it is low (4lb) and apply it to one of the two pipes, and listen and feel as it activates or deactivates ...