Alright,
I've done a ton of researching on lockers (for my rear) the past few nights and have found many many topics that have answered most of my questions. At first I was interested in the E-locker mod. but I've realized that for now I dont want to spend all that money on just that.

So, i've been really focused on the automatic lockers. I read the FAQ and went through 20+ threads and have narrowed it down to the Lock-rite or Aussie locker...The Detroit soft locker is more than what i would like to pay. Now, from what i've seen, people say the Aussie locker seems to be a little more durable than the lock-rite and is less noticeable when locking/unlocking and such.

Right now i've mainly just focused on learning more about the Aussie but I havent come across (so far) any people that have used an Aussie locker for the rear of their 3rd gen. I read somewhere that someone believed the toyota 8" rear locker would work for the diff. on a 3rd gen. Is this true or will it not work period...If not, are there any other Aussies that will work for the rear of a 3rd gen or am I left with the lock-rite setup?


Any help would be great, thanks.

 

What does the Aussie run? I tell ya, I'm SUPA happy w/ my Detroit soft locker - it's been THE best modification I've done.

 

The Aussie, shipped to my address is about $250, which is a steal. I've been told its an easy install so I wouldnt have to pay a shop to install it for me. I've looked into the soft-locker but its a good $200 more isnt it? And dont they require 'professional' installation as well? This is the main reason i've not chosen to go with the Detroit. Anyways, amorphous what did you end up paying for your soft locker and how was it installed...I might go this route.

 

correct you are, 450. Since I'm familiar with no other locker, i might be biased to the soft locker. To me, you know it's there / kinda feel it's there ....but it really doesn't effect your driving habits that much - that is, until you need traction - then it just GETS it.

why hasnt' any company done a mechinical locker, like the OX locker for a toyotard rear...or am I just missing it?

i PAID to have it installed. I have not the experience nor the work area for said install. Plus, it's my daily drive so it can't be w/o it for long. I had a lot of other parts replaced with the install...it ran just over 9 bills for all of it.

 

I did not think they were going to ever release the 3rd gen 4runner locker...or did I miss it.

 

I believe they don't release an ox style for two reasons:

1. Toyotas are 3rd member style axles which is more difficult to work with that sort of setup, I believe.

2. They know Toyotas are already superior and don't want to give us anymore advantages over american vehichles.

 

very true!

 

although you can run a cabke actuated e locker... as far as aussie vs. lock rite vs. ez locker they're all basically the same the consensus is that due to the aussie being the newest design they were able to engineer out some of the "flaws" (loudness, sudden locking unlocking etc.) of the others, also aussies are supposed to be quieter plus they are usually the cheapest

 

So basicly the Destroit Soft-Locker is just a nicer/higher quality version of the EZ-locker...But is also stronger (more aftermarker parts)?

Out of the EZ-locker, Lock-Rite and Aussie, wouldnt the Aussie be the best vaulue of that 'class'?

But still my main question is, will the Toyota 8" 6cyl rear Aussie work in the rear of my '97 Runner?

Thanks

 

I'd go witht he Aussie just cause it says Aussie...Nobody knows Toyota's like the Aussies... Please note, this opinion carries no technical merrit...

 

Hah,
Thats partialy my reasoning as well...plus im already sportin the Old Man Emu and its done excellent, gotta keep the austrailian theme goin!


But first off, im still wondering if it'll fit/work! Any help?

thanks

 

email em! Wait is your truck a V6? If so then aussie still doesn't make a locker for us 8" v6 folks so you'd be in the same boat as me...wait untiil next ~jan/feb (aussies tentative v6 release) or get a lock rite or ez locker, personally i'd get a lock rite but i'd look into the powertrax no slip i think they have em for newer 4runners, from what i hear they are like an ultra smooth lock rite

 

Yes, I have the 3.4L 8" rear. So it sounds like this swap isnt availible yet...bummer. Fortunately though, I dont plan on getting the locker till late Dec. so they might have one by then, hopefully...

Anyways, we'll see...if they dont have one commin out soon after I plan on getting it, i'll more than likely go with the Lock-rite, it sounds like its tried and true...Just rough...

 

They have been saying it's on it's way for awhile. I think it was supposed to originally be released Jan-Feb 04. I'm still waiting for one though. I know people that have the 4 cylinder one and are happy with it.

 

Good to hear, i'll shoot them an email soon to figure out the latest news on whats goin on with their 6 cylinder version. I'll be sure to let you guys know what their plans are.

 

cool...ya the dates i had were from when i heard from them a couple months ago...maybe they're goin quicker now