Description
ARB Air Locker RD153 is a pneumatically operated locking rear differential for the Toyota 8.9″ 12-bolt C-clip axle, featuring 30-spline shafts and a 50mm bearing OD, covering select Toyota Land Cruiser models from 1969 through 1992 and the 1996–1997 Lexus LX450.
IMPORTANT: This unit is designed for the Toyota 8.9″ C-clip axle with a 50mm (1.969″) bearing ID. Carrier bearings with a 1.969″ (50mm) ID must be used. For applications with an 80mm bearing OD, use Timken Bearing 32010X (ARB Part Number 160116), sold separately.
The ARB Air Locker is a selectable locking differential that replaces the factory open differential carrier in the rear axle. When engaged, the Air Locker locks both rear axle shafts directly to the ring gear, eliminating independent wheel rotation and delivering power to both wheels simultaneously. When deactivated, the unit reverts to conventional open differential behavior, with no impact on on-road driving dynamics, tire wear, or driveline loading.
The locking mechanism is pneumatically actuated via a solenoid valve and air line routed from an onboard compressor (sold separately). Activation is controlled by a dashboard-mounted switch, allowing the driver to engage and disengage the locker from inside the cab without stopping or leaving the vehicle. ARB’s patented “timed” locking mechanism enables engagement at any vehicle speed and provides ultra-fast unlocking response.
The Air Locker uses a two-piece steel carrier design with minimal internal moving parts to maximize long-term reliability. The sealing system uses a steel-reinforced, elastomer-bonded annular seal engineered to perform across extreme temperature ranges. The kit includes the Air Locker differential, activation switch, solenoid valve, air line, and bulkhead fitting. An air compressor is required for operation and is sold separately. ARB backs the RD153 with a 5-year warranty.
- Fitment: Toyota 8.9″ 12-bolt C-clip rear axle; 30-spline shafts; 50mm (1.969″) bearing ID; all gear ratios; covers select Toyota Land Cruiser 1969–1992 and Lexus LX450 1996–1997
- Provides 100% selectable traction on demand without affecting on-road drivability or driveline wear
- Pneumatically actuated locking mechanism — engageable at any speed via cab-mounted switch
- Patented timed locking mechanism for high-strength engagement and ultra-fast unlock response
- Two-piece steel carrier construction with minimal moving parts for maximum reliability
- Steel-reinforced, elastomer-bonded annular seal rated for extreme climatic temperatures
- Kit includes: Air Locker differential, activation switch, solenoid valve, air line, and bulkhead fitting
- Air compressor required for operation — sold separately
- 5-year warranty
- Sold individually
| Part Number | RD153 |
| Brand | ARB |
| Axle | Toyota 8.9″ 12-Bolt |
| Position | Rear |
| Axle Style | C-Clip |
| Shaft Diameter | 1.31 in |
| Spline Count | 30 |
| Bearing OD | 50mm |
| Gear Ratio | All |
| Color | Silver |
| Material | Steel |
| Prop 65 | No |
| Warranty | 5 Years |
The RD153 is designed for the Toyota 8.9″ 12-bolt C-clip rear axle with 30-spline shafts and a 50mm (1.969″) bearing ID, covering select Toyota Land Cruiser models from 1969 through 1992 and the 1996–1997 Lexus LX450. IMPORTANT: The closely related ARB RD142 covers the same Toyota 8.9″ 50mm bearing axle family but is intended for non-C-clip (full-floating) axle configurations — verify your axle style before ordering.