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Some products are made to order, imported or custom built. If timing matters, contact us before ordering and we will confirm the expected delivery timeframe.
Send the vehicle, engine and current setup if you want us to confirm the exact application before checkout.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | ARB |
| Manufacturer part number | RD103 |
| SKU | XADLRD103 |
| Differential / axle | Dana 35 |
| Vehicle application | Matching Wrangler YJ / TJ and Explorer 1990-1997 Dana 35 applications |
| Axle shafts | 27 spline |
| Gear ratio | 3.31:1 and numerically lower |
| Operation | Selectable air-operated locking; open differential when disengaged |
| Supplied unit | One Air Locker differential assembly |
| Carrier bearings | Two carrier bearings are included. |
| Ring-gear outside diameter | 193 mm |
| Ring-gear inside diameter | 120.7 mm |
| Ring-gear mounting | 8 bolts on 146 mm bolt circle |
| Air supply | Compatible onboard air supply required; compressor purchased separately |
Add selectable traction to your lower-ratio Dana 35
The RD103 gives your matching 27-spline Dana 35 locking when a loose climb or uneven section demands more traction. Both wheels can turn together when engaged, while the differential operates normally when switched off. This is the carrier for gears of 3.31:1 and down.
SKU: XADLRD103
On uneven ground, an open differential can let one wheel spin while the other has grip available. Engaging the Air Locker makes both wheels on that axle turn at the same speed, helping you tackle the section with controlled progress. Tyres and terrain still determine the grip available; the locker helps you use it.
RD103 supports 3.31:1 or numerically lower gears; RD102 is the 3.54:1-and-higher version. Some newer Dana 35 gearsets need ring-gear bolt-hole machining or pinion-clearance work as part of fitting. Match the axle position and gearset on the listed Jeep and Ford applications.
Disengaged, it operates as an open differential so the wheels can turn at different speeds in a corner. Engage it before a difficult low-traction section, with the wheels turning at the same speed. Switch it off when normal differential action is needed, particularly on firm surfaces or tight turns.
The ARB CKMA12 single onboard compressor can operate one or two correctly installed Air Lockers. Add the ARB pump-up hose kit if you also want to inflate your tyres with it. The compressor and inflation kit are separate purchases.
If you regularly air down for trails, the ARB CKMTA12 twin onboard compressor offers more airflow for tyre inflation. Its Air Locker connection uses the separate 171503 manifold kit. Choose the twin for the extra inflation capability; the CKMA12 already has capacity for two lockers.
A differential specialist sets the bearing preload, gear backlash and air sealing together, so your locker and existing gearset run correctly. Two carrier bearings are included. The air line is routed clear of heat and moving parts, then the locking operation is checked before the vehicle returns to use. Ring-gear bolt-hole size and pinion clearance are checked against the fitted gearset, with any specified machining completed during fitting.
For UK customers, prices include VAT, customs and delivery unless checkout states otherwise. For customers outside the UK, local customs and taxes remain your responsibility, and shipping is shown at checkout. If a shipping option is not available, email us and we will prepare a tailored quote.
Many of the products we sell are made to order, imported or custom built, so a lead time may apply. If you need a part urgently, contact us before ordering and we will confirm the expected delivery timeframe and process.
When one wheel would otherwise spin, engaging the locker lets both wheels on that axle turn together. That helps the wheel with grip contribute to your progress on loose climbs, ruts and uneven tracks.
Switched off, it works as an open differential for normal cornering. Keep it disengaged on firm surfaces where the tyres cannot slip.
Dana 35 with 27-spline shafts. The supported ratio is 3.31:1 and numerically lower.
No. The CKMA12 single onboard compressor can operate one or two correctly installed Air Lockers. The CKMTA12 twin is a useful upgrade if you also want more airflow for tyre inflation; use its separate 171503 manifold for locker connections.
One RD103 Air Locker differential assembly. The compressor is separate. Two carrier bearings are included.
The installation includes bearing preload, gear backlash, air sealing and engagement checks. We recommend a differential specialist so the locker and your gearset are set up together.
Model year, engine, drivetrain, hardware and existing modifications can all change what fits. Check the applications and supplier notes above, or send us your exact vehicle and setup before ordering.
Send us your vehicle, year, current setup and any fitting date, event, trip or deadline before ordering. We will help check fitment, product choice and timing.
