Need advice or suggestions.

I have a 2005 Tacoma 4.0 with electronic locker. 4X2 by the way. I was told by several mechanics that the pinion bearing is bad. All are quoting $800. to $1200. to rebuild. A used one starts around $800. and up. On the other hand a non locker is much cheaper. Can the locker be replaced by a non locker. Im not a mechanic and have no clue what to do. Anyone know of a parts place that I can get one more reasonable? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks.