[2003 Disco II Driver Window Issue]

This is one of my pet peeves with the D2's. The window regulators are very weak and poorly designed. I've replaced 2 over the last couple years, and I'm pretty sure my passenger side is close to failing once more.

[Diff Lock, to lock or not to lock ????]

Gottcha, and again many thanks to you all for your in-depth explanations.

Oddly enough, on two occasions with the diff lock in it's normal unlocked position and while driving through a set of three very tight "S" bends going to my local hardware store I have heard a very loud bang emanating (I thought) from the rear axle. This explains it all and my speed through those bends will be reduced considerably from now on.

I've got a D2 with a TrueTrac up front and a Detroit in the rear as well. As Red90 noted, the Detroit is a full locker, and when on solid ground you will hear it "pop" like that at times going around turns, especially if you are heavy on the pedal and hard in the turn.

Regarding CDL use, generally speaking if things are slippery and traction is poor, engaging the CDL is your best bet. However with the Detroit in the rear you will have situations when wheeling on firm ground (rock crawling as an example), where when turning tighttly the tires will not be able to slip sufficiently and that full lock from the Detroit in the rear is going to cause wind up. In these situations I will often try to disengage the CDL beforehand to prevent that, then work through the tight turn, and re-engage after if needed.

As a general rule though, if it is slippery ground it is best to avoid agressive wheel spinning without the CDL locked. The 2-piece cross pin in the LT230 transfer case is a fail point in those conditions. When its locked its not an issue. Ashcroft does have an upgrade for this though http://www.ashcroft-transmissions.co.uk/diy-rebuild-kits/lt230-rebuild-kits/hd-cross-pin.html

[Camping Advice]

Heckuva good idea, that one.