ARB Front Locker - Wiring it 'safe' (on only in 4L)

Has anyone attempted this (or am I too paranoid)?

I can't help but think someone (family) will borrow my truck and accidentally button mash. My ARB compressor and locker switches are in the 2009+ panel under the HVAC controls. All my switches left of the steering wheel are taken up from factory options (RR Diff lock, VSC, Fogs, DAC, etc.).

There is somewhat of a 'safe' already built into the system by default.

That is, the compressor needs to be switched on before the locker will actuate. Therefore, two switches are needed to engage the front locker.

So my question is, being ignorant with electrical systems, is it possible/feasible to easily wire the ARB front locker switch so that it can only be activated in 4L? From ARB, the switch already needs to be spliced into a 12v ignition switch (on with key).

So is it as simple as splicing into:

12v coming out of the 4wd selector switch when switched to 4L?

12v out of the 4WD ECU to RR Diff Lock (which is also only available in 4L)?

I'm hoping it's out of the 4wd selector switch since my switches are more or less right there.


Attached is the 'Multi-Mode 4WD and Rear Diff Lock Wiring Diagram' which for me, might as well be in a foreign language.

Any help from savvy electricians will be greatly appreciated.

 

I worry about the same thing with my ARB lockers, that someone at the carwash, discount tire, etc. will start playing with the switches and drive it locked or something. When I turn over my truck to someone I just disconnect the compressor wires from the switch on the dash; just pull the switch out a little and pull off the wires. Without the compressor they cannot engage either of the lockers.

 

I thought about putting a third switch under the hood inline with the power to the compressor that would disconnect power going to the compressor. It would bie switched off until I'm going off road. It would be a lot easier, but it would add a switch to the whole system which isn't ideal.

Simply unplugging the compressor is also a great precaution, but again, not ideal.

Hopefully I can find a wire to splice the switch too as I explained in the first post, or someone can help us figure it out via the wiring diagram.

 

I dont really think it would be a problem, considering if the truck is in 2HI, The ADD for the front is disengaged (CV's are still freewheeling), therfore, it shouldnt cause any issues. I have done this on accident, and didnt do anything. ALSO, remember you have to have the Air compressor switched on in conjunction with the locker switch to make it engage.

 

Good point. I didn't think of this. I will have to do some research on the ADD system and front diff. Thanks for bringing that up.

 

If I need to, ill pull the connectors at the solenoid valve.

 

No problem Buddy. Anytime

 

I did some testing. in 2wd, and the locker engaged, the front will not lock up just like Brandon said. The diff is open, but the front driveshaft spins. No big deal.

The ADD needs to engage for the front to lock up.

So essentially, there's three 'safes' right there.

4wd switch -> Compressor switch -> Locker switch.

If I really feel the need for an ultra-safety, I'll unplug the compressor.

/end thread