locking rear differential

I have a 2001 Tacoma, one of the most basic - all stock. It's a 2.7 liter I4. I do some off roading, and have reached the limits on the 4 cyl engine a few times and have stalled going up steep hills.

I just looked at a used 2002, which has the TRD package. When I got in, though, I realized that the instructions for the locking rear diff say not to operate the vehicle at more than 5mph. I'm fairly new to off roading and don't claim to know much. I've visted many off roading sites to learn more about this, but nobody seems to mention that you can't operate the locking rear diff. at anything but low speeds.

So, my question is, when I'm going more than 5mph offroad, should I rely on the limited slip diff. to get me out of sticky situations and only used the locking diff if I get stuck?

Thanks.

I'm also thinking about getting a lift for more clearance. Any recommendations on body vs. suspension (i don't know much about either). Thanks again!!

[fumey]

I think that the 5mph speed limit is toyota covering their own butts. They dont want to be liable for some clown flipping his truck at 70 mph on pavement. I've left mine locked on the way to my fishing spot , and granted I dont get crazy off road, I haven't limited my speed to 5 mph, and it's got me through some sloppy stuff.
I get a kick out of the sticker on the door panel - " use only to free your stuck vehicle in an emergency escape from the muddy road ."

[MOX]

[ QUOTE ]


So, my question is, when I'm going more than 5mph offroad, should I rely on the limited slip diff. to get me out of sticky situations and only used the locking diff if I get stuck?


[/ QUOTE ]

If it has the TRD package, then when not locked, your dif will be open, not limited slip.

My use of the locking diff would be pretty limited - when offroading in soft sand or go into the snow, so I guess I won't worry about the speed limit.


Thanks for the info!

[haireball]

You can "Grey Wire Mod" it and lock it in whenever, I have had mine up to 55mph locked with no problem.

Haireball, what does "grey wire mod" mean and how do you do it?

Thanks.

[brayboy]

This site is kinda sucking right now. I still can't post links. Does anyone have any idea what is going on?
Anyway, go to www.customtacos.com, look in the Tech section for 'Grey Wire Mod' and there you'll have it! It's a good thing!

[haireball]

Thanks Bray,

as i reread, the diff lock is great, but i wouldn't use it in rain and snow and ice, your rear end will just walk out on you. The grey wire mod tricks the 4wd cpu into thinking the truck is in 4Low and allows the diff lock to engage. You ground out the grey wire on the wiring harness, it is in the kick panel infront of drivers door, yeah customtacos.com or yotatech.com will have the how to!

Thanks for the replies, fellas. I'll cehck out customtacos and see if I can handle it!