Vanagon list:

What’s the verdict on lockers? I have an 88 GL with a Subie installed and occasionally need to pull a boat out of the water. The place where I go has a sandy beach and the rear wheels get stuck every time. I need a rebuilt tranny anyway, but I’m told that adding a locking diff will add $1500 to the cost. Is it worth it? And aside from the cost - are there any other downsides to having one?

Steve, in Chicago.