94 ZJ here... If i put one of these in my front diff (d30), and run in 2wd, will i feel anything at all aside from a little ratcheting noise? In other words, is it "open" until torque is applied through the pinion gear? Ideally, in my head, i'd have open diff up front until i engage 4-high / low on the transfer case, then it'd pretty much be locked... but I'd really prefer to install one of these instead of the alternatives (locking hubs and welded diff or $1k ox locker).
@banzaiib you are correct, the locker will only lock when torque is applied via the drive shaft/transfer case in 4wd hi and low. Likely you won't hear any ratcheting in 2wd, but if you do it will be slight. Dana 30's are our most popular selling model for the reasons you listed.