How easy is it to find a electric TRD locking rear diff? I have a 96 third gen. 4 runner and am going to install a rear locker. Should I go Air Or Electric? Arb or TRD or what? Is there much of a price difference? What should I do?

 

It's getting harder and harder to find a used electric locker. The hardcore guys like to use them on their older trucks. Cost-wise, it's going to end up costing you about the same. Here's a rough breakdown of what it'll cost you:

ARB Air-Locker:
$650 locking differential
$200 air compressor
$400 labor

advantages
On-board air for tires
disadvantages
Possible air leaks


Retrofit E-locker:
$700 electric locker (brand new from Toyota)
$200 wiring (utilizing factory ECU and switch)
$200 differential modifications

advantages
No air lines to worry about
looks/works like "factory"
comes complete with new ring&pinion gears (available in 4.10, 4.30, 4.56 ratios)
can be manually engaged if needed
disadvantages
no on-board air

My retrofit e-locker will be finished tomorrow. Stay tuned for a write-up.

-phong