Cabbagehats

Howdy, I'm very new to Yotatech but what of that. Anyway, I was wondering what the difficulty and cost of beefing up my 2wd pickup with either a locking differential, limited slip, or what-have-you would be. Also how much traction or benefit would I gain from it? I want to be able to drive old logging roads at my work that are made out of clay. I was thinking of coupling that with a winch up front. Just sort of a runabout deal with occasional firewood situations. I have a 1977 1/2 ton Toyota sr5 with stock ever-thing and standard lift I suppose. Only mods I've done are a new stereo system and I unplugged the annoying seat belt buzzer. Differential just doesn't seem to like going new places and being loaded to the eyeballs with firewood. Anyhow, help would be appreciated, I hope I posted this in the right spot. Should probably mention fruition of this plan is uncertain what with funds and time. I would just like to get an idea of the pros and cons.

04man

Okay, let's bump this semi old thread back up.

I've got an '82 and I put an Aussie Locker in mine. Rarely do I need 4x now. Granted that's me driving and doing "my thing" which ain't much more than dirt roads like you. I'm happy with the ease of install- the directions were spot on. I don't drive aggressively so the quirks are only sound for me. The added traction makes me wonder why I haven't done this years ago.

Good luck.

Cabbagehats

Hey thanks for the reply. So did the Aussie locker fit into a standard factory 4x2 differential and if so are there any modifications to be made? Also ( this will probably sound stupid) do they stay locked all the time or compensate or what? I looked them up and they sound within my price range. Does "one" mean a set for both sides? thanks for the info! Jeez, I am a noob.

SCToy

I'm not sure if it would fit your 4x2 diff. You'd have to get on the Aussie website, but I have one in my 81 4x4 and they are great.

rokblok

iTrader: (1)

You prob have a 7.5" rear diff. And I've heard you can install a IFS front 7.5" locker into a rear 7.5" diff, such as your 2wd. You would have to ask for confirmation from manufacturer and/or some folks on Yotatech that have done it.

Cabbagehats

Alright, How do I measure a differential to see if it's 7.5"? Also could I swap in a 4x4 rear diff?

rokblok

iTrader: (1)

The 4x4 rear diff is an 8". Not interchangeable with your 7.5". It's the diameter of the ring gear. Unfortunately, it requires removal of the axles and diff to access it. You could try running your VIN. Do a search for the VIN breakdown link.

Cabbagehats

Could I put in an entire 4x4 rear axle?

SCToy

if you don't mind having a 6 lug bolt pattern for your wheels in the rear, sure.

SCToy

best to find a rear axle from a 1979-1985 because they will be a better matched width than the later model axles.

Cabbagehats

Is that the only problem that would arise is the six lugs? I'm more inclined to see if I can find some lockers that'll fit though it sounds cheaper. I've noticed that if I load my truck down too much with stuff it feels like the differential is separating or something like that. Also when I first start out from a stand still it does a ping like the drive shaft whacked something before the gears started moving things. The (input shaft?) at the diff has a bit of slop in it could this cause some bad feelings and is it simple to fix? when I got the thing it only had 150k original miles on it so it seems like it shouldn't be worn out too bad. Maybe I can eventually turn the whole thing into a Wolverine.

SCToy

Yea, if you planned a SAS than the 6 lug is a step forward.

snobdds

There are plenty of companies that sell 7.5 lockers and limited slips. That is your easiest and fastest option.

04man

Yeah, don't over think this.

Just check with the manufacturer to see if the traction aid will fit in your 2x.

I used Aussie as an example because that's what I used on my '82 4x4. I followed simple directions and handled the install myself. I didn't want to spend a mint on a 30year old truck. I over thought the whole thing and wish I'd made the decision 15 years earlier.

You covered the first step with a question for advice now use the computer or phone and get some solid facts.

Good luck

Cabbagehats

Alright thanks a bunch for the answers!

Cabbagehats

Did some poking around a coupla months back and found out the "ping" was a U-joint that was completely buggered. the cap on one yoke had busted up and all the needle bearings fell out. The other two U-joints weren't so good either, replaced them all. Haven't done the lockers yet, got busy and my funds aren't happy.