I currently have a 89 pickup regular cab 3.0 stock for now (just purchased) eventually I will do an sas I have an axle but need to get the rest then will do that. But for now I am wanting to know what lockers to do back for now but front eventually I was thinking somewhere on the lines of ARB lockers and putting in 5.29s I was wondering what you guys would prefer and how hard this no would be. Thanks Michael

 

88 4Runner with the 3.0. I have e-lockers and 5.29s.

 

The ARB is a good locker by all accounts, and really the only way to go for this vintage truck if you want selectable. Biggest issue most folks have with it is expense. As far as how hard it is to install, it depends on your mechanical skill, ability to buy some specialized tools, and willingness to pay attention to detail. The biggest thing will be setting up the gears after you install the 5.29's. That's a job that most people think has a lot of smoke, mirrors, and black magic associated with it, but it's really just going slow, making accurate measurements, and being willing to pull things apart multiple times until you have it right. Best done in a reasonably warm and dry shop or garage, not out on your gravel driveway in 30 degree (or colder) weather.

Go to www.gearinstalls.com for a bunch of really well written and illustrated articles about how to do differential work on these trucks. Mr. Zuk is a master at this, and has been willing to share his knowledge with the world, so take advantage of that.

Keep in mind that you really can't do only one diff at a time when it comes to regearing, unless you're willing to forego using 4wd until you get the second diff regeared as well. Having a stock 4.30 or 4.56 in the front with a 5.29 in the rear won't work so well on the trail.