Quick and Easy pre runner to 4wd evolving parts list... Maybe pictures someday...

You don't REALLY need to be mechanically inclined to do this. I am, it helps but it is really bolt on. If you can change a tire you can do this swap, no kidding. This is not an end all method and this thread will HELP answer some questions, RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH. Hunt for parts, that is the longest part of the process. It is NOT cheaper to just buy a 4wd taco, and it won't be YOUR taco. (I'm attached to mine) Have you seen how much they run for anyways!?

Alright, a year or so ago I did a 4wd swap on my taco, I used a j-shift t-case from a 4runner, and diff from a 4runner. I went to the local wrecking yard and scored big time. I also used an A340F transmission from a wrecked 04 tacoma. <60k on the clock This is the method I used. All toyota parts, not the CHEAPEST way I guess but it was very easy, like 3 hours easy.
All in all I probably spend $1500? Its one of those things I don't want to know. I don't THINK I forgot anything.
The truck has no clue its no longer a pre runner. No lights tell me I'm in 4wd. I just know, drive on the pavement 1 time in 4wd and it will tell you. (not recommended)

1 A340F, make sure it matches your truck, if you have an 03' 04' you have to have an 03' 04' Transmission. (I don't think its true for prior to 03') If you want to maintain your own transmission and swap output shafts, May the Force be with you! If you want to do a manual swap now's the time to do it. If you want to keep your tranny and not swap the shaft Inchworm gear makes an adapter for buku $$$.
1 Front differential, gears need to match the gears in the rear. I used one from a 4runner limited, but be careful because some 4runners have 4.30s not 4.10s, they are tricky. I also used a non ADD differential, I HIGHLY recommend this due to no wiring or vacuum involved. Purely mechanical.
2 Manual hubs, AISIN type. these MUST be off of a tacoma, and you have to have EVERYTHING that comes with them including the inner hub, this all must be pressed in by a large press. Only the early years had them and they are $$$. You SHOULD use these if you have a NON ADD from diff. I am not sure if its mandatory, I don't remember my 93 4runner having them and it was non ADD. They will save you fuel and cv boots. THATS IT! otherwise you will be pushing the front diff around all the time... it sucks. Also they look really cool IMO, classic toyota.
1 4wd transmission tail housing. (comes when you buy a complete a340f tranny USUALLY
1 Transfer Case, I HIGHLY recommend the J-shift types. They are common in 4runners as well as earlier tacomas, no wiring involved beyond the speed sensor which should come in the case. (whole different story)
1 Front drive shaft
2 Manual hub half shafts
1 4wd center console, the J shift and push button ones are the same.
1 4wd support that goes on the crossmember
Various new seals ETC for the diff.
I used silicone to seal the t-case to the tranny.
You will need a lot of extensions, about 3' worth and the little elbow thing a ma jigs for bolting up the case.
USE A TORQUE WRENCH!!!!
When you build the hubs DON'T USE THE RED GREASE, USE THE GREY! I learned that the hard way and made some red vines licorice.
I also used a transmission jack from Harbor freight. It is AWESOME! I have got many uses out of it installing and removing skid plates, rear diff, bumpers.

I have been driving it a lot since then. I has seen hundreds of miles offroad, as well as thousands on the road. The only issue I have ever had was one of my front hubs wouldn't unlock due to excessive heat? it turned my red grease into what looked like licorice. easy trail fix.


You can ask questions but think deeply about them before you ask. Do you want to get called a dummy? The search bar works well, and there are TONS of sites. But if you NEED to, ASK!



GET OFF YOUR BUTT!


Start SEARCHING!

 

Definitely worth it on our first gens, too much of a hassle and expense on a second gen. In that scenario, it's cheaper to trade in for a 4WD truck if you want it.

 

I plan to do a SAS, manual transfercase, and hub conversion on my 04 in the next few years. SAS isn't really necessary for me because I never off road, I just like a solid axle truck, I grew up driving old trucks with them and think that's how a truck is supposed to be.

 

Definitely not worth it on second gens, but 4wd first gens sell at a premium!

I feel that IFS is actually BETTER on the road. although it doesn't have as much travel offroad, it is easier to repair, especially on the trail. it lasts longer with less maintenance. IMHO

HOWEVER, I want SAS too because I do go offroad a lot.

 

Yep, it does have better road manners, but I just like a live axle better for some reason. They make the truck look way tougher and more badass too. My '79 Toy has a solid front axle and manual hubs and transfercase, I just love the way that old truck feels. Want that same feeling in the Taco too!

 

Best mod I ever did

 

Oh I agree on the looks! haha

 

For thumbnail. These prices will vary

 

If we're doing a compilation here I might as well post some links I've had bookmarked
I believe this guy took the harder route to swap output shafts to keep his a340E tranny

 

You can also use a340H 4Runner transmissions however I believe one of the sensors is different.

 

Probably going to be my next mod

 

JUST DOOO IT... DOOOOO IIIIIIT

 

Another thing that can make this cheaper than buying "a real one" is that your insurance company only pays attention to your VIN, which will always indicate 2WD.

 

That's really not bad at all.