Shock load is a killer for these 7.256 Difs, that's why I went with the Torsional.. I even contemplated going to 8 series front dif..

I started out with a ratchet locker and aluminum dif with Autotrak that was a PITA. Eventually, I broke the ear off the dif where I had to clearance it to make room for the drag link. After finally finding a part number for the steel halves, I built the current fr dif with EP locker and custom mount so you don't have to clearance the eye and I have grown to really like it..

 

I snagged a cast iron front diff from a zr2 when I got a parts truck. I think I might look into this locker a little more for when the diff/axle go under the blazer.

 

The guy at EP is small operation, yet very responsive, great product IMO, and clear to communicate. Pricey, however, options are VERY limited and again IMO, very worth it.. It has been 5 6 years since I had any coms, however, he appears to still be producing

Also

I do not have any affiliation with this company, just passing on info

 

Sweet Blazer, vanr. Looks like a great adventure vehicle. Is your winch mount custom made?