3rd Gen Tacoma locking differential swapped into 2nd Gen

Been looking into this question for a little while, checked and the axles are the same part number. Just need to check to see if axle shafts are as well for the splines, otherwise just need to make up a wire harness. New diffs seem a much better option then the 2nd gen as the actuator is internal and is designed very similarly to Eaton lockers. The price is actually reasonable about $1300 for brand new locking third member from dealer (CDN). Compared to a full axle swap or ARB that isn't too bad.

 

I thought the locking differential was 8" and the open or limited slip differential was 8.4". So wouldn't you need to swap the whole axle? Or is the 3rd gen using a 8.4" across the full range?

 

It's a bit confusing online looking at each differential, I have an open diff in mine so it would be the "8.4". The 2016/17 Tacoma have a redisgned differential and the locking actuator is located in the diff as apposed to bolted to the side of the housing. When I checked the parts catalog all 16 axles have the same part number as previous open differential axles in 2nd gen tacomas, but I need to double check the splines haven't changed.
Also I can't verify it but from what I've read the 3rd gen locking differential is considered a "8.7"

 

Watching this post. Would love to see what you find with the spline count on the 16 vs the 2nd gen. It's worth looking into if it's an upgraded third member.
8.4" looking to swap to an e-locker.

 

axle housings are different for sure. 3rd gens have a stepped housing (tube section) and the various mounting stuff for the locker itself.... it wont be a direct swap into your axle housing.

If you want a selectable locker for your "8.4in" diff.... ARB or bust.

 

Th

That's discouraging if it's true. How'd you discover this?

 

just poke your head under the trucks look at the axle housings themselves. 3rd gen ring and pinion are bigger in diameter than 2nd gen diffs.

 

Just did this swap. The 3rd Gen OR axle bolts right up to my 2014, no problem. 4.30 gears in an 8.75 diff with a locker. I have a custom wiring harness for the locker on the way. More details soon.