Dana 30 ARB Air Locker
ARB Air Locker (RD100 for 3.55-down carrier, RD101 for 3.73-up) is the gold-standard selectable locker for the Dana 30. Engaged on demand via dash switch.
ARB Air Lockers are the premium selectable locker — open differential for normal driving, fully locked (100% torque to both wheels) when engaged via dash switch. The locker is engaged by air pressure (12-150 PSI) from an onboard compressor (typically the ARB CKMA12 or CKMTA12). Engagement is instantaneous and reliable.
Dana 30 ARB Air Lockers:
- ARB RD100: fits 3.07-3.54 ring gear ratios (the LOW carrier break, where the carrier itself is sized for lower numerical ratios).
- ARB RD101: fits 3.73 and numerically higher (4.10, 4.56, 4.88, 5.13). This is the more common XJ application.
Pair the locker with: ARB CKMA12 compressor (~$300), wiring kit (~$80), and air line plumbing. Total locker + compressor + install kit is around $1100-1500 plus install labor.
Install: requires pulling the differential, replacing the carrier with the ARB carrier (which has the locker mechanism built in), setting backlash and bearing preload, and drilling/tapping the diff housing for the air line port. Best done by an experienced gear shop unless you've set up differentials before. Total labor 6-10 hours.
Pros: instant on/off, doesn't affect on-road behavior, fully serviceable, ARB customer support is excellent. Cons: requires air supply, more expensive than lunchbox or auto-lockers, longer install.
Why it works
- Selectable on/off
- 100% lock when engaged
- Pairs with onboard air
- Excellent reliability
Trade-offs
- Most expensive locker option
- Requires onboard air
- Complex install
Tools required
- differential setup tools (bearing puller, dial indicator, inch-lb torque wrench)
- drill and tap
- air line tools
- wiring tools
Parts
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| ARB Air Locker D30 27-spline 3.54 and down | ARB | ~$850 |
| ARB Air Locker D30 27-spline 3.73 and up | ARB | ~$850 |
| ARB CKMA12 compressor | ARB | ~$320 |
| ARB Wiring/Switch kit | ARB | ~$80 |
Sources
Related
- Dana 30 Lunchbox Locker (Aussie / Lock-Right / Powertrax)
- Dana 35 ARB Air Locker
- All Jeep Cherokee XJ guides & tools
- Browse the full DIY database
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. How we source guides. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.