4WD vs. Locker

When would 4WD be required? What about the locker? Trying to decide if I need 4WD or a Prerunner... this is difficult!

 

4wd OR....top shit!

 

It shouldn't be difficult... WHAT do you like to do??? Do you ever leave the highway and explore the backcountry? Do you ever go into snow or onto the beach (Baja or Pismo) or into the desert?

The weight of a pickup is over the front axle (unless loaded in the bed)... yet the drive tires are over the back empty bed... This has traction issues written all over!

Combine Part A & B & C below:

Part A)
You need traction to move ahead.
Traction occurs with contact between the tire and the earth.
Weight over the tire as well as good tire tread improves traction.

Part B)
2WD (Off Road PreRunner) puts torque to back tires only. Open differential means if one tire has more traction, the torque will go to the OTHER tire with less traction (spins).
A Rear Locker divides the torque equally between both back tires... both will rotate at the same speed.


Part C)
4WD puts torque to front tires and back tires. If '09 or newer, TRAC in H4 (high range) will limit the slip and divide the torque.
An Off Road 4WD also has TRAC in H4... but, in addition gives you A-TRAC in L4 (low range) and a locking rear differential.

So, will you ever be off road and want the ability to keep on moving in any condition?

 

This sums it up nicely.

 

I saw your other post...

If you can afford to get a 4WD, then GET THE 4WD.

If you have any thoughts of needing 4WD, then chances are...you'll need it and regret not getting it.

 

4WD FTW

 

4X4 is the way to go

 

with a locker in rear....even better with front locker!

 

I GOT MY TRUCK!!!!!!!!!!! (its 4WD)

 

Congrats!!!

 

Nice trdchic, you'll be happy with it!!!!!

Anyone know if you can add ATRAC to an 08 model? Basically this would add limited slip diff to the front right? I have the TRD off road model.

Mike

 

The short answer is no, you can't.

The slightly longer answer is: theoretically possible but no one knows how and it's less time, hassle and expense to add an ARB to the front.

 

Congratulations!

 

^^^ what he said.... you would have to change major components of ABS - ARB a very good option - I have both and very rarely choose ATRAC over ARB!

Oh yeah, Call Chase at East Coast Gear Supply - best warranty in the biz - 5 years!!! www.eastcoastgearsupply.com. Of all the suppliers I know and have dealt with, regardless of product, he is the best.

 

A-TRAC is way more than limited slip... and it is front and rear, not just front.

Your Off Road with the rear locker will get you most everywhere... I had an '05 and '01 Off Road. The A-TRAC is just new technology that makes the truck drive as if it had lockers on the front and rear... It requires the hydraulic brake booster, rotation sensors, and electronics that makes 'adding' it like an after-market product pretty much out of the question. Just look forward to having it when you are ready for a new truck.

 

Thanks guys, appreciate it!

 

Regarding my comments about East Coast Gear Supply:

I don't do it 'cause he looks good.

I don't do it 'cause he's done anything for me that he wouldn't do for any other customer.

And I know a couple of his customers that have not been good to him - and he still will help those guys and stand behind that warranty and the products he sells.

I have spent years as a VP of an supplier of auto and truck parts and have been exposed to many guys in this 'supply chain' (as they call it) and he is by far the best supplier I have dealt with. I've dealt with many Class 8 (tractors) and all the big 3 (and Nissan) manufactures, dealers, after market, etc. so in my book his efforts have earned him my highest respect!

Oh yeah, I don't get a anything for my bloviating about him and wouldn't expect it. I know there are some folks on here that blather on about one supplier or another while they get sharp discounts or freebies (not knocking them - it just influences peoples decisions - that's not the case with me and ECGS).

:end rant:

 

You don't mean this guy do you?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gLN3QoN-q8

 

I'm sorry I think that was a West Virginia squeal... Maybe it would have sounded more like this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXskL1MG8fg&NR=1

 

Congrats! Pics?