Air Locker Air Line Upgrades

The ARB Air Locker revolutionized the locking differential industry by providing the capability of switching the locker on and off with air pressure. But air-pressure actuation means some sort of air transfer lines must be used to distribute the air from the compressor to the lockers, and the supplied ARB air lines are 5mm-diameter, blue plastic tubes that have been in use for years in Australia (home of ARB). The plastic line is quick and easy to install, and for 98 percent of the 'wheelers who use the ARB system, it's relatively trouble-free.

But problems can develop over time, as the plastic line can become brittle and crack, especially if exposed to sunlight. If the line is improperly routed too close to a heat source such as the exhaust manifolds, blowouts of the line can occur. Another source of contention is the bulkhead fittings that attach the hose to the differential housing and then to the Air Locker itself. These fittings have changed styles over the years but are still susceptible to leaks, usually due to improper assembly or age, and all of these leaks can leave your 4x4 with an open differential. Also, the plastic lines that extend down to the axlehousings can get ginked due to improper routing or snagging on trail obstacles.

Many different attempts have been made to eliminate these minor shortcomings, and most have worked quite well. One really slick method is to use braided stainless line and fittings to replace the plastic line, and another method is to use steel brake line, flared fittings, and rubber hose in a unique combination that virtually eliminates any source of air leakage. Certain variations of these methods might work better on your particular 4x4, but standard fittings and parts are always the best to work with because they’re easier to source when your 4x4 is broken down just east of nowhere. Follow along as we reveal some hot tips on air line adapters.