So I am looking at adding a mechanical locker to my 1998 Jimmy (rear axle). Based on good reviews, I am thinking about the Powertrax No-Slip, as it is said to be ideal for daily drivers who do weekend wheeling and is very quiet. From what I've read, it stays locked 100% of the time, and unlocks when turning a corner. Which leads to my question, which is, does it unlock when turning under slippery conditions? Like if you are making a turn in snow? Will it stay locked and let one of the wheels sort of skid as there is not enough resistance to make it unlock or will it unlock like on regular pavement? It has very good off-road reviews, but I am just curious from a technical standpoint about how it works in that sense.

 

It won't let either wheel turn slower than the differential, but it will let one turn faster. So, when the outer wheel tries to turn faster, it unlocks and basically freewheels. It works fine on slippery surfaces, as long as the inside wheel doesn't spin. If it does, it will lock up again.