2wd 4cyl Bigger tires, regearing/locker, axle swap?

*posting from phone sorry if formatting is off*

So, I have a 99 taco 2.4 4cyl 2wd MT that I’m looking to buy new tires for which got me started down the rabbit hole.

I currently have 28 inch tires and wheels off of a grand Cherokee (previously did a lift which got me about 5 inches all around. If interested I can post about that too) but they are starting to get bare so I’m thinking about going up to 31’s. From the stock tires to the 28’s I didn’t lose too much power but she’s already pretty slow and now even slower so I’m thinking with 31’s I’m not going to be going anywhere fast. So that’s where regearing comes to mind. But I also have terrible traction around town and in dirt so maybe a locker too? Based off of the effort involved to get the right parts for the lift I’m thinking that regearing and putting a locker in won’t be as easy as I’m hoping. Is regearing necessary? Is there a locker for this axle? Will I need a new 3rd member? Any input on this would be great.

And now, for shits and giggles, is it at all possible for me to pull the Dana 44 from the grand Cherokee with a LSD and throw it under the taco? If so, would this be easier/smarter or is that a pipe dream all together?

 

No idea, but I’d love to see your process for your initial lift!

 

It'd be easier to do a 8.8 rear swap with a lsd. They have same bolt pattern as our wheels as well, and there's documented swaps. Can also put a 6 lug rear on ur truck like others have done, but will need two spares.

 

Sorry for the late response, been off of here for a little while so I don't spend more money haha. But sure I can fill you in on it. Wasn't anything too difficult.

 

Yeah, you're right. That sounds like the way to go but I was trying to use what I have on hand. Ultimately, not worth the effort is what I've decided. Still thinking about doing gears and maybe a locker on the stock axle tho.