differentials

2012, 4x4, Long, LSD, 4.0 Liter, I need help figuring out the Toyota differentials, I did not get the TRD package but I do have the LSD 4x4. I thought that would be enough but I have been stuck twice. I had an FJ that went thru about anything. Did I make a mistake not getting the TRD? The LSD only works in 2wd, is the TRD the same? or do I get a locking 4wd system with the TRD package?
I might post the same ting in another area if I do not get any answers in the new bee forum, but this is good practice.

 

I beleive the 2010 set up and 2012 set up is the same, so yes, TRD would have come with a rear E locker. The LSD is called traction control because instead of the differential acting on slip, it is now using the brakes as an LSD, and this should work in 2hi and 4hi, but not 4lo.

And welcome to the forum.

 

I could have sworn there was a sticky that detailed all of the 2nd gen Tacoma differentials.

But I see that you have a 2012, and I know that Toyota does not use a mechanical LSD in your truck. "Auto LSD" means that when the computer detects slippage it applies brake pressure to the spinning wheel, transferring torque to the other wheel.

If you off road a lot you would have been better off buying the TRD Off Road, because it has the option to electronically lock the rear differential. This forces both rear wheels to spin at the same speed (get the same torque).

Don't despair though. You can add an air-actuated locking differential, like the one from ARB. You can even add one in the front for even more traction!

 

TRD Offroad would have come with a locker , and a 5' bed

The OP has a DCLB SR5

 

Thanks Texoma!
Good to know that it will work in 4-hi; but I should trade up and get the TRD or modify it with a locker. Maybe that is the yellow wire mod I have heard about, but I am not a great mechanic...so... i need a TRD.

 

Yeah TRD Offroad = locker

Might be cheaper for you to add the ARB air lockers front and rear than to trade for a new TRD off road. Also you will have better components with the ARB.

 

Ok, I will look into adding the ARB's, I travel through some bad areas when having fun; the RAMs won't follow me (nothing against RAMs, just saying).
And I understand now that the TRD does not come with the Long box. So, I really have to get the ARB's if I want the Long box. Thanks guys.

 

Understand that there is also a TRD Sport, which is totally different than the TRD Off Road. I made that mistake when I first started looking at Tacomas.

 

I am excited, I found a reputable driveline specialist garage who will install a Locker for me!! He has done them before!!

 

Well today I am back in the dumps, Ha Ha, My differential guy says they are not yet making an Electric Locker for the 2012, at least he could not find one. He says it may be a couple more years and I should keep an eye out. Dang. Keeping that long tow strap handy.

 

get better tires, that will help a lot

 

What are you getting stuck in if your having problems with the trac system kicking in when you need wheel speed hold the trac off button and then hammer down

 

If you really want a locking differential, get an ARB Air locker installed. Just means you need to install a small air compressor. But if you're going in areas tough enough to get stuck in 4x4, you ought to be airing down your tires anyway, and so a small compressor permanently mounted to air back up at the end of the day is a good thing to have.

 

Like this http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-138654-toyota-8-ifs-arb-air-locker-rd121-30-spline-3-73-down.html

 

We could have told you that. Get the ARB air locker. Same thing, just need a small compressor.

 

What failed? Locker, compressor, air line?

 

I do need new tires the BF Goodrich TA KO's have 33,000 miles on them and are no good on ice with that wear. I might go with the Silent Armor Good year next time, I had good luck with them once before, although Goodyear says they are being discontinued. I'd like to go more aggressive but the mud tires are not too hot in the snow and ice, probably need two sets. Come spring I need good mud tires. Nice build GELO.