I've said it once, and I'll gladly say it again - ARB makes some of the best products in the industry. In fact, they're usually the default "Go-To" because of their quality craftsmanship, engineering, and OE-like fit. At Expedition Portal, we run ARB products on nearly every one of our personal vehicles. From air-locking differentials, recovery gear, and bumpers - we've used nearly everything ARB makes.
There are many quality designs on the market for differential covers and armor, but ARB takes it a step further.
ARB uses words like high tensile solid nodular iron, torsional rigidity and increased flex strength to describe the reasons why their product is superior. They've taken a step back, and re-invented the wheel. The theory is simple, use the best material for the job, and design it in the best way possible, to get the best product.
That's why when we were looking to outfit our Jeep J8 with a little bit more rugged differential protection - we looked no further than ARB.
Most differential covers set out to protect the ring and pinion gears from boulders, logs, or anything that could possibly puncture the cover, leaving you stranded on the trail. While this is also the goal of the ARB Cover - They set out to go a little bit farther. They incorporated a computer-optimized cross brace which adds over 900 ft/lbs of torsional rigidity to the entire axle assembly. They're design not only makes your axle stronger, but it also provides better support for your ring and pinion gears. Under flex, if an axle housing moves even slightly, there is a possibility of your gear mesh being thrown off. Causing increased ring and pinion wear; or worse, your gears binding, or breaking and you'd be stranded. The increased rigidity also benefits the longevity of your carrier bearings by allowing them to more equally support their load.
ARB takes pride in their manufacturing process, when our team visited the Australian Factory, they we're impressed with the hands on attention and detail every product received. The covers are machined to allow for recessed bolt holes and exact tolerances. After the process, they're powder coated red, then CNC machined, to allow the ARB Logo to shine through. The final step is a durable clear coat for a perfect finish.
Here's the differential covers are laid out for a final inspection, any flaws, and they're rejected.
My pinky is really tired of smelling like gear oil, what about yours? Everyone is different, but I dislike the smell of gear oil. I'm tired of sticking my pinky into the fill hole to see if there is oil in it, or if it has been contaminated by water crossings. Apparently someone at ARB shares my same discontent, and they elected to put a dipstick on the cover. Brilliant. They also made the dipstick magnetic, along with the drain plug to collect any metal wear particles in the gear oil. Even more brilliant.
For some enthusiasts, depending on your axle configuration, gone are the days of removing your entire cover, to change your oil. with the ARB cover, it's two bolts. No seals or RTV needed. Check, drain, fill, done.
Above the ARB logo sits the fill hole.
Here you can see the recessed bolt holes, and drain plug.
The final product after use, installed on our Jeep J8's Dana 60 Axle.
Needless to say, we're very happy with the product.
The ARB Differential cover is available for the following axles:
Dana 30, 35, 35C, 44, 60 and Land rover Salisbury style axles.
Visit ARB at www.arbusa.com or www.arb.com.au
Also available in keychain size:
