Which kit to get??? (4.88 Nitro Diff Gears)

Hello,

I'm New to the Tacoma line and trucks in general. I have a 2017 TRD Sport auto with just over 14k miles.

So far I like the truck (features/aesthetics/size), but I don't exactly like the power-train performance. The constant shifting and lack of is a bit annoying.

I plan on doing the OVtune flash and 4.88 gears (as I will eventually be getting Advan RG-D2s with 275/285 tires)

while researching which Nitro kit to get I came across a full kit and a mini kit.

My question is can I just get the cheaper mini kit? I figure since the vehicle is still low on the mileage that I may not need all the new parts in the full kit. Or are there things in the full kit that would be absolutely required?

Full
https://www.rogue-offroad.com/product-p/gptaco2016-4.88-8.htm

Mini
https://www.rogue-offroad.com/product-p/gptaco2016-8-mini.htm


Also may someone please verify that these kits are correct for the TRD Sport.

Any/all guidance is appreciated!

 

I'd go directly to Nitro's web page for more information on kits and which fits your truck - differential size, master kits, etc. Much more and better information than the links provided. I have the TRD OR and it has an 8.75" diff - I don't know what the Sport has - but I think it is not 8.75 unless it is the TRD OR. Thus the manufacturer web page for determination of specific applications.

If you are going to have an independent shop do the install you better check with them about installing owner provided parts - most don't like this as they won't warranty and simply won't do because they make their $ providing parts and install.

I'd spend the extra $ and get the full master kit - no reason to risk a failure and have it caused by parts not installed. You don't have a lot of miles but you never know what excuse the installer may give.

Find a reputable shop near you that has done these installs and see what they say. Check your local TW State page and see if there are any post related to shops doing regear work. Also there are other vendors/sellers with better pricing so shop around if you buy and supply.​

 

With that many miles already I would get the full kit. But as mentioned above I would consult with the shop you intend to have install them. They may want to order the gears for you and they may provide some additional guidance on what kit you need based on their experience.

 

Thanks guys

I did email Nitro and they replied fairly quickly. They do recommend the full kit. The link I posted for the 8" non-E Lock diff is correct for the Sport trim.

As most on this forum show the 4.88 gears along with the OVtune should boost the performance.

 

Not too late to go 5.29

 

I haven't pressed the button on a purchase yet.

Why 5.29 over 4.88? I only choose 4.88 due to the recommended tire size on the site. Honestly I think I'm set on getting 275/70 now since they're not much bigger than stock and still look good with a lift. I plan on getting the OME 2" kit and I've seen a few trucks with the setup on 275s.

Overall, my goals for this truck is just for it to be a nice clean daily to have for years to come. No trails and minimal hauling. So, would 5.29 be better for a daily with 275s??

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/the-5-29-mega-thread.557305/

I would read this read

 

I was just about to post that I did end up finding your 5.29 post. I may go with that gear ratio. 5th/6th will be better utilized it seems. I will also go with a 285/70/17 to keep the RPMs where I want them to be

I still do plan on doing the OVtune as well.