Center diff lock question on V8 4Runner

[Robinhood4x4]

i did mine like 5 years ago. it's a giant nightmare and sucks in every way possible. i'd still be up for it though, but only once i get my welder wired up and drill press set up.

You're doing it wrong!

[Robinhood4x4]

Nice, thanks Sean! I just need to find an FJ third now...
On a related note, I really need to get out wheeling more often!

Is the diff any different than the older taco and 4runner elockers? It would probably be easier to find an older one. I'm just not sure if the they used the same 8" rear diff or not

Yeah, I don't think they're the same.

[troyboy162]

looks like the FJ and 4th gens have the same axle
http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=22213

[Crinale]

That part I figured, just not sure if it was the same diff as the 3rd gen and 1st gen taco trd..

[Jaydee914]

That part I figured, just not sure if it was the same diff as the 3rd gen and 1st gen taco trd..

Yes, I believe it's they're all the same. An elocker from a 3rd gen 4Runner or FJ should just drop right into the 4th gen axle (with a little bit of modification).

[Robinhood4x4]

I'm not convinced that they're the same, but maybe they are. However, one reason to look for an FJC or newer tacoma elocker is to get the correct gear ratio.

[Jaydee914]

Turns out that ALL '96+ 4Runners (and FJC's) have the same 8" rear diff (although possibly different ratios b/w 3rd and 4th gens). Here's a good bit of info: http://home.4x4wire.com/erik/diffs/
Tacomas are not the same, it turns out. They're similar to the Tundra, instead.

[Crinale]

the trd tacomas with elocker have the same 8" diff... it is closely related to the old v6/turbo diff of the 1st/2nd gen 4runners. The non locker tacoma has a completely unrelated 8" diff that has a beefier casing and pinion bearing I believe

[Jaydee914]

Ok, after further research, here's what I've come up with for ratios:
4th gen Runner: 3.727 (3.73)
FJC: 3.90
3rd gen Runner: 4.10

So we'd need to figure out new gearing either way. Maybe an air locker would be the best option after all?

The research continues...

[troyboy162]

You need to transfer your gears to the elocker carrier I would think, but I dont know if they mate up or not. Hafta google what people are doing to make it work. re-installing the gears will take a gear install set of bearings and a set up fee. Pulling the third is at least easy.