Regearing the front- what do I need
 

I am working on swapping my regular rear end on my Tacoma for the factory elocker version. Since my front end ratio will not match my back after that, I will need to regear the front end. What I want to know is, how much of a new front end do I need to buy to do this? Can I just buy a ring and pinion set or do I need to buy the whole front axle assembly?

I have a 2001 Tacoma 4x4 2.73RZ-FE 4cyl. The elocker axle assemblies can be found in 4.10 and 4.30 gearings, but the 4.10 rear ends were only put on the 6cyl Tacomas, but I believe that the rear end will fit on the 4.

I would prefer the 4.30 anyway, in which case couldn't I just get a ring and pinion set and have my mechanic change it out? Can I do that with a 4.10 ring and pinion, even though Toyota never made a 3RZ-FE with that gearing?
Should I buy a front axle assembly instead?

Thank you for your advice.

In any case you would have to remove the front differential. To install the ring and pinion, (have a pro do it) or purchase an already set up diff. Your Shop Service Manual should show how to remove the diff.


Former NH native, aye neighbor.