redneck_adjacent
Active Member
EDIT: I invested in a fully assembled rear differential with an Eaton E-Locker and 4.88 gear ratio. I am, however, still searching for the right setup for the front differential (7.5").
I realize it's ultimately a matter of subjective opinion and driving style but, nevertheless, I would like your thoughts after learning a bit about the problems I have, the driving I do, and the goals I want to realize.
First of all, I drive a 1997 Tacoma DLX 4x4 with a manual W59 transmission and 3RZ-FE with a Magnuson supercharger, cold air intake, and full LC Engineering exhaust.
The problem is that, presently, my gear ratio is 3.58, which is really "tall" especially for 265/75R/16 tires. In particular, it frustrates me how often I must shift into 4 low. I shift into 4 low when I drive at low speeds on steep hills around town. I shift into 4 low when I exit an underground parking lot. Irrespective of incline, my truck "hiccups" in first gear unless I keep the RPM's high. I really, really do not like those things. The supercharger helps a lot; but, of course, it only helps so much. Second, my truck doesn't handle well off-road, which is normal with open differentials but frustrating nevertheless. In addition to logging roads, I would like to take the truck into beginner to intermediate rocky terrain. I don't want this truck to be a full-fledged rock crawler; it's too pretty. However, I want it to be capable on and off-road.
The Taco is my only vehicle. Therefore, drivability matters a lot to me, so a spool and-or detroit locker are off the table.
Right now, I am favorable to the idea of re-gearing to 4.88, getting 33" or 35" tires, and installing an Eaton TrueTrac in the rear. The idea of an air locker does not appeal to me for a lot of reasons: it is expensive; an air compressor eats a lot of precious space in the engine bay or cabin; a switch must be installed in the cabin; and the air line is prone to disruption from debris while off-roading. I am more favorable to E-Lockers but the cost and difficulty of sourcing and installing the parts are strong deterrents for me.
Based on what you read above, would you concur that a 4.88 gear ratio on 33" or 35" wheels is OK, and do you think that an Eaton TrueTrac in the rear is sufficient or should I also consider one in the front, too? Or, do you think my rationale is completely off-base?
Forgive me, friends. I have a lot to contribute when it comes to electronics and engine management; however, my knowledge and experience of drive-trains is weak.
Thank you, friends. I hope you are having a nice day so far.
P.S. I have a friend who is a talented metal fabricator. He will help me trim the fenders and wheel wells when larger tires are eventually installed so don't worry about that part
I realize it's ultimately a matter of subjective opinion and driving style but, nevertheless, I would like your thoughts after learning a bit about the problems I have, the driving I do, and the goals I want to realize.
First of all, I drive a 1997 Tacoma DLX 4x4 with a manual W59 transmission and 3RZ-FE with a Magnuson supercharger, cold air intake, and full LC Engineering exhaust.
The problem is that, presently, my gear ratio is 3.58, which is really "tall" especially for 265/75R/16 tires. In particular, it frustrates me how often I must shift into 4 low. I shift into 4 low when I drive at low speeds on steep hills around town. I shift into 4 low when I exit an underground parking lot. Irrespective of incline, my truck "hiccups" in first gear unless I keep the RPM's high. I really, really do not like those things. The supercharger helps a lot; but, of course, it only helps so much. Second, my truck doesn't handle well off-road, which is normal with open differentials but frustrating nevertheless. In addition to logging roads, I would like to take the truck into beginner to intermediate rocky terrain. I don't want this truck to be a full-fledged rock crawler; it's too pretty. However, I want it to be capable on and off-road.
The Taco is my only vehicle. Therefore, drivability matters a lot to me, so a spool and-or detroit locker are off the table.
Right now, I am favorable to the idea of re-gearing to 4.88, getting 33" or 35" tires, and installing an Eaton TrueTrac in the rear. The idea of an air locker does not appeal to me for a lot of reasons: it is expensive; an air compressor eats a lot of precious space in the engine bay or cabin; a switch must be installed in the cabin; and the air line is prone to disruption from debris while off-roading. I am more favorable to E-Lockers but the cost and difficulty of sourcing and installing the parts are strong deterrents for me.
Based on what you read above, would you concur that a 4.88 gear ratio on 33" or 35" wheels is OK, and do you think that an Eaton TrueTrac in the rear is sufficient or should I also consider one in the front, too? Or, do you think my rationale is completely off-base?
Forgive me, friends. I have a lot to contribute when it comes to electronics and engine management; however, my knowledge and experience of drive-trains is weak.
Thank you, friends. I hope you are having a nice day so far.
P.S. I have a friend who is a talented metal fabricator. He will help me trim the fenders and wheel wells when larger tires are eventually installed so don't worry about that part
Last edited:
