I have an '05 Tacoma (2.7L 4cyl, 4x4, access cab, base model) that does daily driver duty, but I also use for snow plowing on steep, uneven terrain and some light off-roading. It currently has the stock open differential.

I'm looking to install a locking rear diff and want your thoughts about possible upgrade options that'll work with the 8" rear end on my truck.

Here are some thoughts:

1. A limited-slip diff won't be suitable because sometimes I find myself with a wheel in the air. I want a locker that splits power.

2. An auto-locker like the Detroit Locker probably isn't best because its road manners don't make it good for daily driving. I think it's better to get a locker that I can simply turn on and off.

3. I am not super-rich.

Questions:

1. Could I grab a complete 3rd member from another Tacoma with an E-locker? Are there any compatible 3rd members w/ an 8" rear end? What model years?

2. Are there better aftermarket options, e.g., ARB?

3. What would you do?

Thanks,
Dave

 

dave,
I just found your post. I know it is a little late. Sorry about that but, I think most of the guys on here would tell you that ARB is the way to go. It may not be the cheapest but it is dead on reliable. And should you later decide to lock the front you'll already have the compressor set up and ready to roll. Although your thought on finding a E locked axle from another yota might be a fairly easy stock appearing mod if you could find one. Good luck and sorry again for not getting back to you sooner.

 

From a reliability and durability standpoint, while still being a decent dollar value, a good used Toyota locker would be the way to go. If you are good at electrical stuff, you can get a 12 volt relay or two and a switch, and wire it to work properly. That wouldn't be too hard if you can find a good schematic.

The ARB is a good locker. But it's cost, and the cost of the compressor, make it more cost prohibitive. And you aren't as likely to find a used one complete with gears that have the same ratio already set up and ready to swap in. Installing an ARB could very likely require that the gears would need set up with special tools that cost extra money, or they would have to be set up by a mechanic, and that would cost extra money. So a used Toyota locker from a junkyard would also save labor.

And you may also get lucky and find a used V6 locker, which is stronger than what is used on the 4 cylinder.

 

On newer tacos isn't the non-locking differential 3rd a different ring size, and incompatible with 8" e-locker 3rds?