An Aussie Locker works about the same as a Detroit Locker or Lock-Right. It is locked inside the differential full-time. Nothing turns until 4WD is engaged - then both axles turn. When the hubs are engaged, both wheels are driven full-time and at the same rate. When resistance from turning rate differential (bind) is encountered, the locking mechanism ratchets to allow the outside wheel to turn at a faster rate than the inside wheel. The problem in ice or very slick hardpack is that you may not have enough traction to make the locker ratchet - so you'll have the same result as a fully engaged ARB or spool - no steering control. The ARB does let you disengage without getting out of the truck, but trying to use one in 4WD-Hi at speed would be foolish in icy conditions. You can't engage and disengage fast enough to recover steering control. From what some of the forum members here have said, even an LSD front is very tricky on snow and ice on the highway. You just have to slow down and be prepared for the unpredictable.

I think you'll find that any locker is good in deep snow, but not so good on icy roads. The 3WD compromise helps with steering, but may pull to one side or the other, depending on which hub is engaged.

AWD setups that transfer power front/back and side/side are much more desirable on the highway slick stuff.

Frank