« Reply #3 on: November 07, 2018, 09:33:27 PM »
The XL7 uses the same front end parts as all the other 1996-up IFS Suzukis. The only difference is (at least on my 03 V6 5 speed) the CV cups were marginally larger in diameter. Something like 3/16" larger IIRC.
I believe Samurai rear ends and Sidekick front ends are interchangeable. So, since the XL7 diff is the same as a Sidekick diff, you should be able to run an XL7 front diff in the rear of your Samurai.
HOWEVER, any 1999-up Zuk will have the air-actuated shift on the fly carrier- but the ring gear transfers over to a regular carrier.
04-06 XL7's use a totally different style of front axle and I have no idea what's inside them. They are not the most popular for that reason.
All XL7's use a stand-alone rear axle that is not compatible with any other Suzuki product unforutnately...only manufacturer of a locker is Lincoln.
Logged
97 Sidekick 4door 5 speed, 1.5 spacer lift, 2" body lift, CJ rims, locked rear, 31's, 4:1 low <SOLD>
01 Vitara 2.0L 5 speed, 2.5" Calmini lift, 2" body lift, Sidekick rims, locked rear, 31's, 4:1 low, 5.13 diffs <SOLD>
03 XL7 2.7 5 speed, 4.5" AE lift with OME springs, 2" AE body lift, 5.13 diffs, 3:1 low, 235/80R17 BFG AT's on Ultra 17x8 with 1" spacers, skid plates, Balmer Fab front bumper