ARB Air Locker RD205 – front differential for 22-spline Suzuki axles

One rock step or a deep rut is enough to lift a front wheel off the ground. An open differential then sends all the torque to the path of least resistance – the wheel spinning in mid-air. The front axle stops pulling exactly when you need it most.

The ARB Air Locker RD205 replaces the factory differential carrier in the Suzuki front axle with 22-spline axle shafts. At the flick of a switch it locks both shafts together so the front wheels turn at the same speed; switched off, it works as a conventional open differential.

Key features

• Pneumatic actuation – the locker engages in a fraction of a second at the flick of a dash switch and stays locked until you switch it off. You do not have to slow down or stop to engage it.
• Fully open differential when unlocked – the vehicle drives exactly as it did from the factory, so the Air Locker can stay fitted year-round.
• Two-piece nodular iron case – a rigid housing that holds ring and pinion geometry under load.
• Four forged, hardened gears instead of the factory cast parts – more tooth contact area carrying the torque.
• ARB's patented timed gear design and high-temperature seals – repeatable operation even with hot diff oil.
• Ratio independent – this part number covers all final drive ratios in the applicable axle.

Fitment

Per the ARB Air Locker application chart, RD205 suits the front axle with a 10-bolt ring gear and 23.9 mm, 22-spline shafts:

• Suzuki Sierra, Samurai, Jimny, Holden Drover, Maruti Gypsy – 1984–1998, leaf spring models,
• Suzuki Vitara, Sidekick, Grand Vitara, XL7 – 1988–1998, the 22-spline variant.

The 26-spline version of the same models takes RD208, not RD205 – count the splines on the shaft before ordering. In some Asian markets a Dana 30 Salisbury axle was used from 1993; that one takes RD100 or RD101. Grand Vitara and XL7 up to 2005 need a front-end conversion using RD208, a Vitara or Sidekick third member and free-wheeling hubs.

Specifications

• Part number: RD205
• ARB axle description: Suzuki, front, 22 SPL, 10 bolt ring gear
• Shaft diameter: 23.9 mm (0.94")
• Shaft spline count: 22
• Ratio coverage: all
• Supersedes: RD73 and RD75

What is in the box

• Air Locker differential (complete carrier with the locking mechanism),
• in-cab activation switch,
• solenoid valve,
• air line with the bulkhead fitting for the axle housing.

An air compressor is not included – the locker needs a compressed air source. If your vehicle does not have one yet, we will match a compressor to the locker.

Installation notes

The Air Locker replaces the whole differential carrier, so fitting means stripping the axle and re-setting the crown wheel and pinion – backlash and tooth contact pattern. This is work for a shop experienced with differentials. The air line to the axle and the switch wiring are run separately.

We can fit it for you – Szekla4x4.pl is an online shop, a walk-in store and a workshop specialising in off-road and overlanding. Get in touch and we will also match a compressor and book the job.

Warranty: 5 years with no mileage limit, per ARB's warranty policy.

Frequently asked questions

How do I tell whether I have the 22- or 26-spline version?

The safest way is to count the splines on a removed axle shaft, or look into the housing with the cover off. Shaft diameter differs too: 23.9 mm for 22 splines and 27.4 mm for 26. If in doubt, send us your VIN and we will identify the right part number.

Does a front locker make steering harder?

With the locker engaged the turning circle grows, because both front wheels turn at the same speed. That is why a front locker is engaged for the obstacle and disengaged straight after – with an Air Locker that takes a second.

Can I drive it on tarmac every day?

Yes, as long as it is switched off. Unlocked, it behaves exactly like the factory open differential.

Do I need a compressor?

Yes. The locker runs on compressed air and the compressor is bought separately. The same compressor will air your tyres back up after the trail.

Is one locker enough?

Locking one axle is a big step up on its own. The full effect comes from front and rear together – on Suzukis with the 26-spline rear axle the matching part is RD208.

Why buy it

• You drive through under your own power where the winch or a kinetic rope used to be the only way out.
• Less throttle means lower shock loads on shafts and CV joints, and less trail damage.
• RD205 is a current ARB part number – it superseded RD73 and RD75, so service parts remain available.

Not sure which number fits your axle? Message us and we will check it for you before you buy.