Hi everyone,
Using the search function I have read just about all the threads in this section related to gears, lockers, etc as well as tech articles from Cruiser Outfitters. I would like to hear everyone's thoughts on my perceived route to take to 1. only have to do this once and 2. make it as cost effective as possible.
So, I have a 1998 LX470 w/o factory rear locker. I run 295/70r18 Cooper AT3 XLT w/ stock gearing currently. These are a rather light weight tire and I feel the truck maintains good drivability currently.
I currently live in Kansas (minimal wheeling opportunities) but am going to be moving soon out West. Either AZ, UT, or CO (wife and I both work from home). My goal is to build a rig similar to what most here want...dependable, capable, comfortable, etc. Also getting my 3 yo and 5 yo into wheeling as well is a goal of mine.
I currently do what little mild wheeling I have available and what people today call "overlanding." I do that in current configuration no problem.
Within the next year I plan on having close access to much more difficult wheeling. My goal is to have a rig that can get through most of Moab and may consider the Rubicon as well. I currently have MetalTech sliders and full Slee skids.
Ok so here is what I am thinking right now, with parts being purchased from CruiserTeq:
1. Harrop or similar e-locker in the rear using a OEM switch in the dash
2. Regear the transfer case
3. Keep stock gearing
I realize this is quite a bit more tame then most but I also am somewhat against re-gearing due to the current decent drivability (albeit abysmal mileage) from the 100. I realize RPMs are not the end all be all to achieve maximum MPG and its much more about how much the engine has to work to get up to speed and maintain said speed. So maybe I just talked myself into 4.88s.
Thoughts?
And thank you.
Using the search function I have read just about all the threads in this section related to gears, lockers, etc as well as tech articles from Cruiser Outfitters. I would like to hear everyone's thoughts on my perceived route to take to 1. only have to do this once and 2. make it as cost effective as possible.
So, I have a 1998 LX470 w/o factory rear locker. I run 295/70r18 Cooper AT3 XLT w/ stock gearing currently. These are a rather light weight tire and I feel the truck maintains good drivability currently.
I currently live in Kansas (minimal wheeling opportunities) but am going to be moving soon out West. Either AZ, UT, or CO (wife and I both work from home). My goal is to build a rig similar to what most here want...dependable, capable, comfortable, etc. Also getting my 3 yo and 5 yo into wheeling as well is a goal of mine.
I currently do what little mild wheeling I have available and what people today call "overlanding." I do that in current configuration no problem.
Within the next year I plan on having close access to much more difficult wheeling. My goal is to have a rig that can get through most of Moab and may consider the Rubicon as well. I currently have MetalTech sliders and full Slee skids.
Ok so here is what I am thinking right now, with parts being purchased from CruiserTeq:
1. Harrop or similar e-locker in the rear using a OEM switch in the dash
2. Regear the transfer case
3. Keep stock gearing
I realize this is quite a bit more tame then most but I also am somewhat against re-gearing due to the current decent drivability (albeit abysmal mileage) from the 100. I realize RPMs are not the end all be all to achieve maximum MPG and its much more about how much the engine has to work to get up to speed and maintain said speed. So maybe I just talked myself into 4.88s.
Thoughts?
And thank you.