Rear locker decisions..

[dmarsh2]

Looking for some specific guidance as I circle the drain on a new (to me) pickup.

Planning to get ahold of a 2015-17 f150 with the 5.0 coyote and make it a solid hunting rig. I’ve got the two options available:
1. Buy the off-road package with an e-locker on the rear
2. Buy the base with 4x4 but add an ARB locker on the rear

Cost is an obvious difference between these two options, as I’m expecting the arb install to take $1.5-2.5k based on my research.

Does anyone have recommendation based on performance and reliability for this model/year specifically? Or recommendations regarding the arb or other after market lockers? Would these recommendations change for a high mileage truck? I tend to pinch pennies and squeeze as much life as I can out of things, so life expectancy if each is important.

OR should I skip the diff locker and just get an atv to get into the sketchy areas without beating up my truck?

 

[SFC B]

I have a '20 5.0 Super cab , lb with the E-locker. Have had it since new and with good tires I have never had a problem getting places even remotely reasonable. With the locker on I have very rarely even needed 4 wheel drive on trails to be honest(one of the good things about Ford's system is the ability to put on the locker in 2/4hi/ or 4lo). I have zero complaints

 

[jimh406]

I don't know all of the differences, but the off road package probably also comes with skid plates. Many of the vehicles with packages also come with other features that you might want, but won't cost you much in a used vehicle. It's almost always going to be cheaper to buy a truck with the options you want.

I'd probably go with the off-road package and try to pick up other options like better radio, cruise control, heated seats, etc.

However, depending on desirability, you could get a lot better deal on a 4x4. Also, a particular one might have a lot less miles than the other one or had better maintenance. For used vehicles, stay flexible.