2WD to 4WD conversion

I have heard about people converting their truck from 2WD to 4x4, but I didn't know if it was possible for the 2nd gen tacomas and how expensive it is. Has anyone done this and would you still have the ability of switching from 4x4 to 2x4?

Joe

 

Converting a 2nd Gen from a 2wd to 4wd would be very expensive. You'd have to start with a Prerunner, at least that'd be a lot easier. You'd then need a transfer case, front axle complete, rear driveshaft, spindles and all the electronic crap that goes with it. It's cheaper to trade for a 4wd. The other option would be a solid axle swap which you don't want to do unless you REALLY need a solid front axle.

I don't understand your question about going from 4wd to 2wd... The Tacoma isn't a full time 4wd vehicle. You just turn a knob and you're in 2wd again.

 

Serious mod

 

Piece of cake. Shake hands, sign life away, give bald man old keys, take shiny new keys. BAM, it's a 4x4!

 

+1

If I were planning that level of a mod, I'd just go SFA.

 

Hi Joe. You going to the Mod day next weekend? http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/no...y-mod-day-3-aka-b-m-f-mod-day-5-5-2012-a.html

It's a great way to meet a bunch of local guys who like wrenching on Tacomas.

As far as your question goes, it comes up again and again on here.

The short answer is:

1. Yes, possible but:
2. You need a "donor" truck to get parts at "wrecking yard" prices from. You'll bleed dry if you try to buy new parts at the dealer to do this. Basically you're changing all the driveline from the transmission back, except for the rear axle itself, plus front differential, driveshafts, front spindles, and a hundred minor parts.
3. You need to do most of the labor yourself. You'll go broke trying to pay someone to do this at standard shop labor rates.
4. You'll have to do some custom work as, e.g. your pre-runner doesn't have the 4wd control unit computer, so you'll need to fab up a switch to actuate the electric front differential.

People have done this on 1st gen tacomas. It's talked about on a second gen; but not sure anyone's actually followed through.

 

Yeah, but there are varying levels of big job.

4x4 swap using factory parts is a Big Job. Solid Front Axle is a BIG JOB, with a lot more custom fabrication involved.

 

Go big or go home.
Do it right or don't do it.

Why do all that work to hit the trails with an IFS?

 

'Merica!

 

Fuck yea!

 

LOL!

 

Much easier, and cheaper I am willing to bet. Do this

 

Thanks for input everyone. Considering how expensive and how much work it is I would rather sell mine and buy a 4x4. The main reason I wanted to keep the 2WD tacoma I have now is because of the modifications it already has, but I'm not experienced enough to do it myself.
Thanks all,
Joe

 

You have a prerunner now which means if you traded for a 4wd, most of your accessories and add-ons would transfer over.

 

Trade it. you have the option to take anything you want off of it. atleast they did that when I traded in my 01 for the 06 (obviously in my case it wouldnt work, maybe wheels and or tires) . Everything will transfer over, so take it all off, get a 4x4, and put it all back on. GL!

 

No.




Trade it in for a 4x4.




I don't get it, if you wanted a 4x4, why didn't you just get one in the first place?

 

Well I initially did not think I would need a 4x4 and I honestly do not "Need" one, but after becoming practically obsessed over these trucks over the last couple months I now want to be able to do what a 4x4 Taco can in the off-road spectrum and feel comfortable when going up to the snow since I have had some problems with 2WD in both situations. This thread was just to answer my question about the conversion.

 

X2 on the FJ manual transfer case. Better route.

 

In all seriousness OP, If you really want to have 4x4.. trading in/selling and getting a 4x4 is your best option. Usually dealers will work with you if your looking to do that. They make money on the used vehicle they are taking In. I get offers all the time to trade mine in for a new one. Just go to a dealer and find out what the numbers would be. Doesn't hurt to ask.

 

Is there anyone in the S.C. area that could/would be willing to help me w this conversion?