locking rear differential install

I am getting a 2014 Double cab, v6, 4x2, prerunner this week and with towpackage. I am saving about $5-6000 by not getting the trd off road package. I had a trd off road with locking rear differential that worked great when i needed it at the boat ramp. I am thinking now i need the rear locking diff and hope you guys/gals can help. Can i install the same locking rear end in the non trd? and is it a matter of just wireing or do I have to modify the rear end. Thanks

 

Its a different rear end. You would have to swap out for the e locker rear end... Better off just getting a arb air ocker and doing it right. Honestly there is no need for a locker on a boat ramp.

 

To use the Toyota e-locker, you will need to swap the entire axle, not just the third member. 8.4" SR5 rear end vs 8" TRD Offroad ring gear isn't compatible. Then you'd have to wire it up. Or you could go with an aftermarket like ARB, which has a great reputation.

 

TC, you beat me to it!

 

Get a 4x4.

 

yellow wire mod, look it up.


But really do yourself a favor.... get a 4x4 with the OR package, you will thank yourself

 

If you insist on the 2wd I would second the arb suggestion if you want a locked rear.

 

What does the yellow wire mod have to do with his pretunner? And why would a boat ramp warrent a 4x4 off road?

Don't get me wrong 4x4 is awesome I have another vehical for that.. But my prerunner is plenty capable in most situations.

 

Obviously you've never been on a steep slippery boat ramp in a two wheel drive. I've seen loads of people get pulled out at the ramp because they had no traction.

 

Out of every lake i have been to in Texas (And thats more then i can count including Some on the public grasslands that only see maintenance ones a year) I Have never seen a boat ramp that was not graded and at a steep grade... Guess the core of engineers around here is smarter..

 

Yeah i honestly have never been on a boat ramp outside of texas and Oklahoma... I forget there are hills in other places

And on the ARB Comment cant you get one set up for under $1500? Honestly never priced one after seeing the cost of just the locker its self.. I Personally would go for a Lock rite... But i also don't have to worry about ice or snow often here..

Everything i deal with is about the same in florida though.. Didnt really think steep ramps would be a problem. Guess im ignorant with the topic

 

about 1000-1200 for the arb
then the compressor and fitting (not sure if it comes with it)
then installation which could run 200-350
These are mere guesses but I think they do run sorta correct

 

Yeah that's why my bronco is just welded lol

 

We don't get snow much so not a issue and its not a daily. Only used for camping trips and hunting. Most roads its on are dirt but not really that bad on pavement. The swampers are the worst part lol

 

I have had it happen also. That was what drove me purchasing my Tacoma. I was stuck on the ramp with my 2x4 and boat trailer and they were opening the gates on the dam. I had swiftly rising water up to the door and covering most of the bed when someone pulled me out. The concrete was too slippery to get traction with an open differential. Another 10 minutes and the truck would have been submerged.

 

Yes, they're pricey, but when you compare to the cost of getting another rear with a factory locker ... or the cost of a 4x4 (for someone who will seldom use it) it's probably the better option. Personally I can't imagine not getting 4wd.. but that's me.

 

posted in wrong thread, oops!

 

A cheaper option would be to get a truetrac. It will install in your current diff, and is almost just like a locker. If you never offroad it would be a great option for you IMO. I offroad, and I still love mine

 

Thank you, excellent debate and informaton. I have seen others spin and guys had to jump on the back of the truck to get traction... tires SMOKING! My ramp is pretty good but there have been times i had to lock in the rear on the TRD. Anyway I guess I will see what happens and I think $1500 is better than the $5000 extra I would be paying for the TRD.
Oh by the way I did actually purchase a GMC $10,000 more and brought it back. The steering and the response of the gas pedal I just couldnt get used to. The Toyota has tight steering, a very responsive Gas pedal and resale is unbelievable So It is good to be back with a Tacoma. Thanks for all your help again and I will let you know how I do.

 

I would also look into a Detroit Truetrac. It's a gear driven LSD. I love mine, can't believe how well it works. For what you're doing I think it would be a great option. It's always there when you need it, never have to worry about it not engaging via electrical or air problems, and it will be a lot cheaper. Unless you offroad a lot and lift a tire you won't have a traction problem. Even when I lift a tire I can just lock the ebrake and i pull right out