Yep, had em both and was in your situation with the EB a year ago. I went with the Electrac. I have PS, but no hydraulic assist. When the Electrac's unlocked, steering is no problem, so don't let that enter into your decision. Thoughts from my comparison:
- When unlocked, the Electrac is limited slip, ARB is open. I've found that I don't have to lock the Electrac nearly as often as others with me on the same trail with ARBs.
- When locked, both are locked solid, so no difference.
- Cost is about the same when you consider total cost of each (compressor and ARB together vs Electrac.)
- Ease of install is MUCH easier for the Electrac, since there's no drilling through the axle housing to run the air line, no air line, no compressor, etc.
- Trail fix: if the ARB air line, compressor, etc. fail, you have an open diff. If the Electrac actuator fails, you can choose to install a trail fix kit (5 minute install) that unlocks it, OR you can remove the actuator which locks the diff, so at least you have a choice.
- There's no o-ring to leak on the Electrac. ;D
- Warranty and customer service - both companies have good reputations and have been around for a while.
What tipped the scale to the Electrac for me is the ease of install and limited slip mode when unlocked. I've had it in for a year, done lots of hard core rock crawling, and am very happy with it.
Steve