Many factory-fitted differential locks are computer controlled, restricting activation to conditions that include 4L engagement and some wheel slip. That can be a nuisance in situations where pre-emptive diff lock engagement is desirable.

We can understand why OEMs restrict diff lock engagement, because inexperienced drivers can get into serious trouble, on and off road, by incorrect operation of a diff lock. However, experienced off roaders know that there are many occasions when it’s safer to pre-engage diff locks – particularly the rear axle lock – to avoid getting bogged.

Titan Off Road came up with a simple over-ride control for the D-MAX and its Mazda BT50 clone. Once fitted, it bypassed the factory-fitted restrictions, allowing the rear diff lock to be engaged at any time, in any driving mode and also cancelled the 30km/h upper speed limit. Novices beware!

The kit came with a black box and wiring that simply plugged into the factory module under the dashboard. It operated via the standard diff-lock switch.

We bought one to evaluate and fitted it, without tools, in around two minutes. Our early impressions were excellent, letting us choose when we wanted to click in the lock that engaged and disengaged quickly and smoothly. 

As with the standard diff lock protocol, ABS, traction control and stability control were cancelled when the lock was engaged, so it needed to be used judiciously, by an experienced driver.