Hi guys.. I have a 96 Tacoma 2 wheel drive with nearly 400k miles on it.. It's never had any major issues up until now.. The other day, on the way to the work she locked up (rear end)..
It was scary!! It has had a slow leak for a while now .. Never thought, that it would just go like that.. I figured, it would get loud first .. I was wrong!! I want to go to the wrecking yard and pull one.. What years will bolt in? Also how can I determine the year in the bone yard?
I know the basic bodies throughout the years..

 

I don't specifically know about 2WD Tacoma's. However, to answer your question, I would guess that any of the 2WD Tacoma's will fit in that are in the same generation. Also, make sure it isn't a Pre-Runner? Those might have a different gear ratio that you will want to watch out for. Unless you want to change! Again, I don't know this for sure, so don't quote me on it.

 

Have you made sure it's not the brakes that locked up? Have you checked the fluid level? You said it was leaking, didn't think to keep an eye on it or fix the leak?

 

you'll need a rear axle out of a 2wd. they use a 7.5 differential.

 

Thanks for the replies guy's.. To answer your question, Jason no.. I wasn't to concerned about fixing it.. Figured, I've more than got my monies worth out of the truck.. I bought it near new for $8k..
I've literally driven the hell out of it.. I own a newer Tacoma now, along with a brand new Prius.. But, to be quite honest.. I really miss my little beater truck..
So, I'm going to go ahead and fix it.. It's been sitting out in the yard since around Thanksgiving..

I've located a rear end, out of a 1993 Toyota pickup truck.. It is complete.. Drum to drum.. It is also a 5 speed standard cab.. It's slightly a different body style.. Can anyone confirm that this will be an exact match? My engine is also the 2.4.. I think the previous engines were a tad smaller.. I need some expert advice, before I drive a few hours to get it, and then go through the troubles of installation..

Thanks

 

The axle from the pickup will be narrower then the tacoma axle. It will still probably bolt in but it is not the exact same.

 

Will it work without any issues?

 

Bum deal.. !! I called my local dealership, and the serviceman was nice enough to dig into this pretty deeply for me.. Yes, Robert it is a much narrower rear end, and I don't think that I'll take the chance with it..
Toyota, also advised against it.. I was really looking forward to picking this rear end up and installing it..
I may, just be on the lookout for a good used third member now.. Shucks!!

 

Well, finally knocked out the swap...
All went well, I sand blasted and painted the new/used axle, that went in.. It cleaned up beautifully !! I now have about 1500 miles on it, without issue.. It's nice to have my truck back on the road again... Thanks to all that have taken the time to read this thread... Until next time ...