I just bought a 94 runner 4x4 auto. the owner before me installed the toyota e-locker and has been running with 4.88 gears with 31" tires. I am looking into getting some mud terrains, but aren't the 4.88 gears supposed to be paired with a bigger tire? should i look into getting a bigger tire? or change the gearing to 4.56?

with the auto, you want 4.88 with 31's, otherwise its a complete dog.

X2...

4.88 and 33's for a manual

It would not be worth the money for such a small change from 4.88 to 4.56 gears. As Squeebs said, with the auto you want the 4.88's. You could probably go up to a 32x11.50 but I would recommend staying with a 31. E-locker is a great addition.

Going from 4.10 to 4.56 was definitely worth it.

if you install a smaller tire than what's on there now, you'll probably notice the engine at slightly higher rpm's for any given speed, a little extra 'pep' in the 'runner's attitude and maybe a small decrease in mileage... and I really mean 'maybe'- mileage could actually go up if the engine's not having to work so hard to turn the tires.

Indeed! Although we have standards. The auto is a different beast all together.

My point was simply not to underestimate changing the gear ratio by one step (ie: 4.10 to 4.56, 4.88 to 5.29)

With regards to the OP, you've got a great setup as is, but if you want to change to 4.56s and you're in the Pacific NW, give me a shout, I'll swap with you.

And I'm your midwest connection.

FWIW, I have an auto tranny, and now running 5.29s with only 32" ATs... AND I LOVE IT.
That auto really makes it a dog; having the RPMs up as high as possible so it's in the functionally usable range really makes a big difference.

are 5.29's ok for 38 krawlers with a manual and 3.0l

Does keeping it up in the powerband make it better on economy? Just wondering.

Although I don't know much about the 3.0 I have read that 5.29's are good for up to 35's depending on how much you value mpg's, if it's also a daily driver. Most folks that run tires in the 36+ range run 5.71's from what I've read.

X2...

Probably won't be terrible.

Thanks guys, I will stick with the 31's then. Going to get some mud tires. Yeah, I really scored on this new rig, the previous owner did so much to it. elocker, aisin manual hubs, dual power seats from 04 honda accord, marlin rear bumper, rock sliders. its amazing

Might I recommend treadwright.com?