4x4 with rear diff locker, aftermarket/stock/rare???

Okay I had a 2006 access cab with 4x4 and the rear locker and the 6 ft bed. That is bought used. Unfortunately that truck got totaled. I have now finally gotten to a point where I want to buy another Tacoma. I want the same truck but a different cab size. Now the long bed and double cab size with 4wd is easy enough to find but I have noticed that most 4x4s do not have the rear locker button. Before I get into the questions, I gotta say with this truck I usually just used the 4wd when off-roading but a friend told me to try off-roading and playing with just the rear locker. It was totaled before I really got to use it to the point where I can figure out what the performance difference is and when to use rear lockers over 4H.

so is having both 4x4 and rear locker normal or rare? is that something that could be ordered in 2006? because I think when this truck was new it was "loaded" because it also had the long bed and rear power outlet. I bought it used.

do I really need a locker or can I just be in H2?
performance wise what is the difference?
will I even miss not having the locker button/feature?

If I wanted to could I install this... I have general automotive knowledge but I am confused if I would need a new rear differential that is made for 4x4 system and also for rear locking. or if I can add a kit that adapts to the existing rear differential.
I realize either way is expensive.

 

The rear locker is available on the TRD Offroad package, 4x4 and 4x2

If it's a 4x4 with no TRD Offroad package then there will be no locker, was the same way on 2nd gen Tacomas from 2005+ as well. Only TRD Offroads get the e-locker

 

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Welcome to TW

 

Your 06’ had an open differential. (So does my 07’)
In 2009 all the trucks went at a break actuated limited slip differential.
While the differential is still technically “open” it preforms much like a limited slip differential.
2005-2008 trucks w/locker don’t preform as well in 2WD as the trucks with LSD differentials.

I guess my point is, don’t let the locker keep you from buying the truck you want.
If you find a 2009+ truck with Auto-LSD it will preform better than your 06’ in 4H and 2WD.
Yeah, it won’t be “as good” as locked truck. But most people don’t really need the locker. (Me included)

 

Welcome to the TW

 

If you want a locking diff, I suggest a Detroit Tru Track for a DD. As far as install, if you have to ask, you probably can’t do it yourself. It requires a few specialized tools and some experience. If you are doing this on anything but a new vehicle, change out all the bearings and seals while you are at it. It’s also a good time to re-gear. I have run Tru Tracks before and really like them for a DD. Mechanical, no clutches, reliable, none of the issues you have with an aggressive locker, less expensive than an e locker or air locker, and no maintenance or friction modifiers like with a clutch pack limited slip.

A guy I know did gears front and rear, bearings, seals, a Tru Track, installed at a local shop for 2200. Straight axel truck with Dana’s. Not sure if a Tacoma might be more or less, but it’s a baseline figure. I’ve done a few straight axel installs before and it’s a little bit labor intensive. That’s where a good part of the cost comes from. Just FYI, if you did choose to re-gear, aftermarket gears tend to make a little noise. However, it’s less of a problem with a truck than say a 4 Runner or FJ.

Welcome to TW, you will be dazzled, you will be amazed, you will spend lots of money.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

welcome! Its on all TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trim levels.