Rear Differential Install Question

Hi Everyone, I'm currently in the process of looking to buy a 1st gen dc taco and was wondering if I ended up buying a non-TRD off road package truck would it be hard to install a rear locker in the truck and about how much would it run $$ wise. Thanks

 

depends on what kind of lock you want.

You can install an auto locker like a lock rite (cheapest-$300-$500)

You can find a junkyard locker out of a TRD and swap in the entire axle (moderate price-$400-$1000, depending on where/what/how you find a locker/axle from another Taco)

Or you can get an ARB locker and OBA (on board air) (most expensive, $900 for locker and around $500 for OBA)

 

Yes, you can put in the coveted Toyota E-Locker in the rear of your truck but let me warn you it is not an easy process. You will have to use multiple toyota vehicle parts and spend a minimum of 12 hours with at least one other persons help with swapping the axle. The 10 hours is just the swapping portion that's not including driving to the junk yard multiple times, driving to the dealership for parts and of course the days of research and prep that will be needed.

My advice, if it's not to late, would be to get a truck with the E-Locker already in it. I just finished up on putting a toyota 4runner E-Locker in my 2000 2.7L Tacoma.

I had to use a 4runner E-locker 3rd member with the matching gears ($600) and a 1st gen E-Locker Tacoma axle housing ($150). I tested the E-Locker before I put it in my truck so I know it works. The last thing I need to do is the wiring to a switch in my cab. Don't forget about purchasing new inner and outer seals for the axles, 3rd member gasket, nuts and bolts, paint and gear oil.

I used this site quite a bit. http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/electric_locker/