locker/axel question

So my thought is to find a used rear axel and rebuild it slowly as I can afford it. I need to regear and I would like a locker but can't afford to do it all at once. Would I be better off with a factory locker and just regear or should I just go with an aftermarket locker? Would I just be able to add a switch and be able to connect it all to the computer or would that have to be switched out as well? I don't do a lot off hard core off-roading but I do a lot of getting to where I want to go hunting and camping. I'm open to any suggestions and this whole project might just have to wait until I'm out of skool.

 

I’d stay in school and get an axle after.

 

Swapping in factory e locker probably the cheapest option. It will have to be wired up with a dpdt switch. Not too difficult. I acquired a factory e locker axle with 5.29 regear for around 600.

 

These trucks are plenty capable even without a locker. I used mine so little the actuator died last time I used it (in the locked position, lol). I really should have been exercising it like I do the 4wd actuator.

You said you NEED a re-gear. What's your use case? People regularly run 33 and sometimes bigger without re-gearing. Not saying that's the best, but if you aren't towing or hauling heavy it probably isn't necessary.

 

Regearing for the tires. Its a manual so its not always shifting but the truck has a lot of heaving shit on it and seems like it could be better.

 

What size tires?

 

Finding a factory locked rear axle and front clamshell with the gearing you want would be the cheapest option. It's doable if you just wire in a switch

 

33

 

I'm just gonna try and be the financial voice of reason that says if you don't have a couple thousand bucks minimum of fun money laying around, I'd just wait til you can afford it. Your truck should be fine.