diff drops?

[jeffryscott]

I just evened out my truck so it sits level now ... but with longer front shocks (Tundra fronts, about the same length extended as OME N96's) I am wondering if I should do a diff drop. I'd discounted the idea, but reading John Shott's excellent writeup on his 100 build, I am reconsidering.

I am a bit concerned about CV angles with the extra height, and am also considering limiting straps up front so I don't bind up with the ball joint.

What is the consensus on diff drops?

 

[Dirty Harry]

Unlike Shott's 100 Series, a diff drop on your 4Runner will do nothing for CV angles (unfortunately). Instead, the "diff drop" lowers the points where the differential attaches to the frame, in essence rotating the pinion up towards the transfer case. Good to get rid of potential vibrations, but if you don't have any vibes than it is not necessary.

 

[jeffryscott]

Unlike Shott's 100 Series, a diff drop on your 4Runner will do nothing for CV angles (unfortunately).

Why? Naively, maybe, I thought the setups were probably similar. Aaah, but wait, Is it because the 100 uses torsion bars?

 

[offroad_nomad]

http://sonoransteel.com/store_tapered_diff_drop.html

 

[jeffryscott]

http://sonoransteel.com/store_tapered_diff_drop.html

That's the one I would get.

Opinions on diff drops seem split. I trust Shotts, as he builds first class stuff. Steve at Sonoran Steel is also first class by all accounts. But I just wanted to solicit opinions from folks here as this is a good place to engage in good discussion on such things. I just want to make sure this isn't another deck plate mod:shakin: