Sean K.

Not sure if I should post this here since it pertains to my 3rd Gen 4Runner or if it should have gone in Offroad Tech. My apologies in advance if this isn't in the right spot.

SO.....

I have a '99 4Runner that I'm swapping in a 2004 Tundra rear "8.4" axle" w/o ABS.....short rundown is that it's getting 4 linked with ORI struts all the way around.

I'm reading that the newer model Toyota rear shafts are more breakage prone, though I am skeptical as I've run the older ones for years without issue. If they are breaking more frequently, it's likely that the obstacles are harder or that they are underneath Toyota's with stronger powerplants than the rather anemic engines of the past.

That said, Nitro-Gear makes an upgraded Chromoly (supposedly 4140 alloy) rear shaft for this application (p/n: AXT34060). $175/shaft but I'll also need bearing/seal kits which is another $36 per side from Beck Arnley (P/N 051-4271 Wheel Bearing Kit).

Is anyone having a lot of breakage of stock Tundra/Tacoma/4Runner rear semi-float axle shafts and is anyone running the Nitro-Gear shafts to be able to say if they are in fact stronger and worth the money?

JFYI: I'm running dual Marlins (2.28 & 4.70), 3.4L, manual trans, Detroit soflocker rear, Grizzly in FJ80 front with 5.29s and 37" PBRR on beadlocks.

Sean K.

No one has broken any rear shafts, I take it?

Trents3.slow

Oem Toyota axles are tough. I abuse the heck out of mine. No issues. I have a friend with a Tacoma similar to what are described and he's running oem axles. No issues.

Sean K.

Thanks for the feedback. That mirrors my experiences with the Toyota rear axles as well......

There are a few guys on Pirate who've been breaking them.....but everything is relative.