Gear Oil Question...

So I have been reading alot of threads on this forum concerning gear oil and what works and what doesn't; As soon as I think I have it all figured out, I read something contradictory. So here's my question:

I have a 2013 Tacoma Base Model, do I have an LSD? I heard 2009+ models have mechanical LSD's....so do I need an additive when changing the fluid out? Or can I use straight gear oil? My final question is can I use conventional, or should I go with synthetic? I've heard that synthetic can wreak havoc on certain differentials, but not sure if mine falls into that category?

Thanks to all who post in advance!

 

08- trucks can have a mechanical LSD depending on options (unless its a TRD OR with the elocker which NEVER had a mechanical lsd)

09+ trucks DO NOT have a mechanical lsd, you can use any standard gear oil in ANY 09+ truck.... personally i run mobile 1 synthetic gear oil which just so happens to have LSD additives, but is not needed in my 2013 TRD OR.

That stated.... get what ever oil you want... The real key is CLEAN FRESH oil and PROPER changes. I changed my rear diff oil at 6k miles ... shit came out DISGUSTING from break in, super glad i changed that shit out.

 

Your answer is in this how-to thread.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/changing-differential-fluid-a-step-by-step-how-to.24545/

 

Thanks nd4spdbh and File IFR, I must have mixed up the mechanical LSD dates then. Thanks for the fast responses from both of you guys.