Sorry for trawling this old thread up but...
I have been looking into putting lockers or LSD's into my Euro 2.8 CRD Nitro SXT (6 speed Manual Gearbox), mainly to fully exploit its 4WD capability, less for pure offroading ability but more for ensuring I don't look a fool and end up getting stuck in the muddy field temporary car park or the lightly snow covered 1:10 gradient like a BMW X6, and have narrowed it down to the following.. Front Diff is a 27 spline Dana 30, Rear is a Chrysler Corporate 210mm. (if anyone knows different please correct me)
The Dana 30 is quite a common front or rear use diff used in lots of different makes, and there are many different possibilities for changing the internals, cheap 'lunchbox' lockers, more expensive 'proper' Limited Slip Differentials and more expensive still air, cable or electrically operated locking diffs.
The Chrysler Corporate 210 is the same as those fitted to Mercedes Benz C32, CLK55 and Chrysler 5.7 Hemi (210 axle) less options here. If the Nitro had used the Chrysler 8.25" diff there would be more options here.
My research has come up with the following.. both diffs in the Nitro use 3.73:1 ratios, unlike the Liberty's which are different, due to the transfer box being different to the one in the Nitro (again, if anyone knows different please let me know, I have been unable to find much info on the standard diff ratios)
For the Front axle (selectable 4WD)..
Forget 'Lunchbox' Lockers if you are thinking of extra grip in snow, the AussieLocker or Richmond Lock-Right looks like a cheap and easy fit into the front diff, but it seems that the characteristics of its operation do not suit snowy and icy conditions, it'll just throw you all over the road and click away merrily to itself whenever you go around a corner. Good option if you just want a locked front diff when in 4WD for the odd off road excursion.
The Eaton/Detroit Truetrac LSD looks like the best option for the front diff, automatic operation, works well with the Nitro's ESP brake control, has little effect on steering as it operates and makes no noise.
The ARB air locker or an equivalent cable operated or electrically operated unit is good for those times when you know you're going to have one wheel off the ground or with no traction at all, Best for getting you out of situations that nothing else but a winch would normally, but needs to be used with care and consideration, locked diffs are a handful and your tyres will not like you using it too often.
For the Rear (always in use in 2WD or 4WD)..
Forget about the 'Lunchbox' Lockers, act like a locked diff most of the time and will hurt your tyres and ears with its clicking and tyre squealing. I have not been able to find one that will fit the 210mm diff anyway.
The only true Limited Slip Differential I can find is the Quaife QDF7V for a 210mm differential with 3.73:1 ratio (if the ratio is different then a different Quaife part number may apply here)
ARB and other diff lockers, again they are best for true rock trail runs where you're going to have wheels dangling in mid air half the time, good in that they are disconnectable when you get back on the black stuff.
I have not been able to find a 210mm version of these either.
Not sure if the Nitro's ESP would work with or against the Air locked diffs or the Aussie Locker or if it'll just ignore it since all the wheels are going at the same speed.
Comments, corrections and general observations/personal experiences welcome..
