Replacing the transfer case with a "lockable" central diff

Hey all, I have a feasibility question/discussion. Would it be possible to replace the tcase in tacoma with an aftermarket lockable central diff (like awd 4runner has). Ideally, 4runner central diff might work but I couldn't find anybody doing this. This would allow the truck to be used with 4wd on high traction surfaces and behave like an awd vehicle. When you need traditional locking of front and back axles (for offroadig etc.), diff can be locked to achieve this.

 

Anything is possible. I am like 99% certain someone did this to a 2nd gen tacoma. Now is it going to be worth it in terms of cost/fabrication work? Maybe not for you, but if you really want to do it you will find a way.

 

Possible, yes; feasible, no

 

A scrapyard central diff from a limited 4runner doesn't look super expensive (~$1000-1500). But I am more concerned about making the electronics work since both the 4wd system on tacoma and this central diff are electronically controlled. I am not sure if they can be integrated into a single system without some external relay switches etc.

 

If you really want to do this, check out the OP of this thread.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/8”-ifs-clamshell-w-frs-torsen.561017/

he was going awd and he successfully swapped a torsen diff into the front dif so he has limited slip front/rear also.

 

Don't those diffs use clutch packs for the AWD mode? Something to consider as you would be adding another wear-item to the truck that would need to be replaced at some point. Is there really a strong enough benefit to these systems to overcome the disadvantages?

I don't think so.

 

My 80 series landcruiser has the fulltime 4wd system with a lockable center diff. Same idea for the limited 4Runners.

Being an EE makes me know it is possible with a ton of relays and stuff, might not even be too terrible actually. If you can find the wiring diagrams from the stock one and a compatible tcase from a compatible 4Runner or maybe even a manual FJ Cruiser? I'll look at them and see how far off they are.

 

Thanks for the information. It is not something that I will try immediately, but I do want to try this sometime in the future. Of course I would need to make a lot more research before actually trying the conversion. In terms of function, an AWD would probably not add much to the truck. I am interested in this just because I think it would be cool to have a very rare AWD tacoma lol .

 

The big problem is not making it work, it is making it fit. Floor won't fit, frame won't fit, transmission won't fit it, etc. Lots and lots of fun. Then you have to make it work lol.

 

I used to drive an AWD Range Rover Classic and a 2nd gen Tacoma in 4hi every other day in the winter. I’d switch up which one I drove to keep them both running well. There was no noticeable difference ever in day to day driving characteristics when driven in the same conditions. It sounds cool to have an AWD Tacoma but that’s a lot of money to spend on something that offers very little over what you already have.

 

I don’t know if it’s possible on a 3rd gen but it’s been done on 2nd gens.

 

Thread revive, but awd is really nice in the snow and on slick rock in Moab. Just not hard on the driveline like 4x4 is.

 

I had a Range Rover classic with the awd transfer case. The thing to do is swap it with a Discovery transfer case so you can have a locking central diff. There everything bolted up so it was easy, or as easy as moving a massive transfer case and bolting it up can be.
Seems like awd means more moving parts and thus lower gas mileage on days you could have just left it in 2wd.