Thread: Fitted Ashcroft ATBs front and rear

Ok so the first year of a 3yr warranty period is over and no real issues with the (MY2013 DC) Defender so far. So figured it's time to do an upgrade I have been wanting to try for some time. Replace the stock open diffs front & rear.

Background:
I researched long and hard and decided ATBs were the go for me. Why?:
- don't want the benefits that full-on selectable locking diffs bring in serious hard core situations (cos not planning to do hard core any more)
- don't want to have to upgrade axles, CVs etc.
- don't want to have to install compressor or electrics, or the associated control switches etc

- do want something that will work for its keep 100% of the time I am driving, whether on road or off road

What are ATBs?:
- A type of limited slip diff that works via gears not friction clutches
- Torsen diffs are ATBs, as are Eaton Truetracs and Quaife helical LSDs. Ashcroft Transmissions in the UK make a few types of lockers including ATBs.
- They are not Detroit lockers or "Aussie lockers" or "Lokka" types - more accurately called "unlocking" diffs


So I bought my ATBs from Ashcroft Transmissions. While one can order just the ATB center and swap it into existing diff - I decided to order complete diffs fully rebuilt and set up by the professionals at Ashcrofts.

So fitting was as simple as pulling half shafts an inch or two, then dropping out the old diffs and bolting in the new.

Have now done about 500km city (only) driving since fitting. What do I notice so far:
Definitely improved stability and directional performance on wet roads. E.g.
- Hitting pools of water on the road at speed, minor monsoon flooding etc with just left side wheels does not result in the vehicle lurching to the side.
- hard straight line braking on wet roads pulls up straight every time, even if one side is in a few inches of water
- hard braking mid bend (not hard enough to lock up completely) is better controlled and balanced.
- steering inputs when heavy braking also feel controlled and balanced
- stability and control when accelerating hard, wet and dry roads, straight or twisty, is a real buzz! Too much fun to be had in that department.
- when you do get some sliding happening, very progressive and controllable shift from understeer to oversteer and back again, via throttle modulation and steering inputs.
- can really feel the diffs working through the steering wheel when accelerating or decelerating hard. The steering effort increases slightly. It's not a bad thing, feels like an extra unseen steadying hand is on the wheel.

Can't wait to get offroad and test on a muddy trail!

And while we're on the subject...........

What are the differences between the centre diff in an LT95 TC and same in an LT230?

i.e. is there any way an Ashcroft LT230 ATB diff is going to work in an LT95?

TIA, DL