Finding a factory e-locked 3rd gen 4Runner?
- Thread starter Falkon
- Start date
verticaltrx
Observer
When I was looking for my 4runner I found a couple nice ones with e-lockers, both were Limiteds and both were automatic. However, a manual transmission was more important to me than the locker so I went that route. (finding one with both a manual and locker is pretty hard).
Honestly, for overland use a locker isn't high on my priority list. With the sway bars unhooked and decent suspension the 3rd gens have enough flex to tackle 95% of the trails in this country (or any other for that matter) with little trouble. I've taken mine through some trails that it really shouldn't have been on and with a little rock stacking I made it fine.
BTW, I used to have a Tacoma and the 4runner, to me, is a better all around overland vehicle. More inclosed storage space, interior sleeping, much more comfortable seats/interior, etc. Off road the performance very similar, I'd say they are both equally capable.
Honestly, for overland use a locker isn't high on my priority list. With the sway bars unhooked and decent suspension the 3rd gens have enough flex to tackle 95% of the trails in this country (or any other for that matter) with little trouble. I've taken mine through some trails that it really shouldn't have been on and with a little rock stacking I made it fine.
BTW, I used to have a Tacoma and the 4runner, to me, is a better all around overland vehicle. More inclosed storage space, interior sleeping, much more comfortable seats/interior, etc. Off road the performance very similar, I'd say they are both equally capable.
Last edited:
Martinjmpr
Wiffleball Batter
E-lockers are pretty common here in CO as well. What you have to remember is that unless the seller is an experienced off-roader, they probably don't know what a locking diff is or what it's for, and they rarely mention it in their advertisement. So you really have to go and look for the switch.
When I got into my current 4runner for a test drive, the E-locker switch was the first thing that caught my eye. As soon as I saw that switch I thought to myself "if this drives OK, I'm buying it."
When I got into my current 4runner for a test drive, the E-locker switch was the first thing that caught my eye. As soon as I saw that switch I thought to myself "if this drives OK, I'm buying it."
xcmountain80
Expedition Leader
I don't think that's low enough for the 4Runner (4.30 is stock ratio for some 4x4 1st gen Tacoma's), my 4Runner with a fresh motor, 4.88's and gear still could use a little help on long climbs. For a stock 4Runner running stock size tires or slightly larger than a 265 not loaded a whole lot might be ok. You also have to consider bumpers, armor, and other add-ons that weigh is down. If those aren't applicable than yes 4.30's could work with stock setup IMO.
Aaron
FLYFISHEXPERT
LivingOverland.com
X2 on both points. I found two 4Runners, one auto w/ locker and one 5spd w/o locker. I went with the 5spd. Haven driven my friend's with an auto, I find the 5spd way better. I have found out that finding an axle with a locker can be difficult in SE Idaho. Just my thoughts.