2001 LSD

Hi all, finding a lot of mixed info in the interwebs about installing a LSD into my 01 Tundra. Is this a plug and play if you do not change gears, what precautions must be taken, and is this possible without special tooling? I am mechanically inclined but have no experience with differential/transmission systems. Stock 2001 Tundra SR5 2wd

 

I installed a Kazuma/TRD LSD in my 2002, it was an easy installation without gear change.
They were discontinued long ago, but I still see new old stock on Craigslist now & then.

 

You'll need the LSD, you'll need a new kit of bearings and a kit of shims, if possible a solid collar is recommended as an upgrade.

Setting the lash of the gears is a bit of black magic, you need special tools to do that right. Best bet is to either pull your 3rd member and have a shop do the install from there (expect $200-250 labor) or if you have to take the truck to the shop for labor you'll be between $400-500 max.

Here is a good read so you'll see what goes on, this guy is a well known master.
http://www.gearinstalls.com/Kazumatyson.htm

 

Excellent link! It appears to be a bit more complicated than I had anticipated. I was under the impression that measuring backlash was only needed with a gear change.

 

Some guys get lucky, I would definitely want to know that everything in the diff is set up right. The carrier itself may have variance that requires a change in shims.

I've lost a diff before and it wasn't a good thing, I took mine to a shop with a box of parts and paid them to swap. I did gears and LSD though.

 

So the LSD im looking for isnt the standard 8" available on some websites?

 

It will be listed as 8.4". Heres a link, if you call JustDiffs they're super helpful and prices are very fair. I think they have a representative here but can't recall if they're a sponsoring vendor or not. I went through them when I got stuff to rebuild my diff.


https://www.justdifferentials.com/category-s/3209.htm

 

Best bet might be to find a wrecked truck with you gear ratio and lsd and pay a shop to go through the third member and check bearings and such. I third member would be a pretty easy swap from that point.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIKJxAnRho4 A decent video on the process. Seems simple enough, his is a newer generation. Any idea of the differences between differentials?

 

A lunchbox locker install is much easier. Some people just don't like the fact that they ratchet and lock and what not. I've had a couple of them and don't mind them on vehicles with automatic transmissions. With manuals they can be a little a little harsh.

 

A big decision on which type i choose is that i will be towing a 5000# camper regularly. The LSD unit appears to be a whole assembly, one would think it would be easier?

 

I would go with a TrueTrac...uses regular gear oil and has essentially no parts that wear, unlike a typical clutch pack LSD...

https://www.offroadxtreme.com/news/video-what-exactly-is-an-eaton-truetrac/

 

Lsd requires your gears get reinstalled because it replaced the carrier. The lunchbox locker just replaces the spider gears more or less.

Lunchbox locker= gearing stays intact. Backlash and pattern are unchanged.
Lsd or full carrier locker=take the ring gear off, reinstall on new carrier, and have the gears checked for pattern and backlash by someone who knows their stuff.

 

The Truetrac is a popular choice for a LSD. 913A541. Call these people and anyone there will tell you there's not much to it. They will put the bearings on at no charge if you don't have a press . If you know how to use tools you can do this. If Eaton offers a rebate within the next few months, I'll be doing the same earlier than planned.
https://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-14297317-toyota-tacoma-t100-rear-detroit-truetrac-913a541.html

Unless you want to rebuild the differential with new bearings and gears, Leave the pinion gear Alone. With the Truetrac just press on new bearings, use the same ring gear + bolts, or new bolts, and reinstall the original shims to where they were. You should be within tolerance when measured.

Here's a good U-Tube video that will show you it's not rocket science.
And another that gives good pointers.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FUee1n3GzI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lg3Bv3qWt5k

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIlnD9w22qo

 

Welcome from NY.

 

I'm having a hard time believing that the original shims will produce a good pattern often enough to be taken as a rule. This is a different than oe part made at a different time and on a different machine. The amount of tolerance has me thinking sound advice is getting the pattern checked after installation every time and I'd consider it a blessing if somehow an aftermarket carrier uses the exact same shims as a factory carrier.
Just my opinion, but do as you wish. I've messed with gears a bit so if it were me I'd be checking the pattern and backlash anyway. It wouldn't cost me more for easy insurance.

 

Besides gear back lash and pattern there is also bearing preload to be concerned about.

 

As stated, I heard this from well recognized pros that do this as a living, and am going with it. Was told Truetrac's manufactured tolerance is very close to Toyota's diff. The old shims typically work fine. However, they carry OEM shims which is wise to get if needed. Anyway, a fellow asked if I had a dial indicator, etc. while talking. I do, so I'll try DIY first.

Don't say nay as though you assumed I'm stating not to measure afterward, and just go! Remember, I did say "You should be within tolerance when measured." and "measured" is the key word that you missed along with a couple other little things.

If I fail, then it will be shipped to these guys, or carried off to a local differential rebuild shop. I have several years of professionally turning the wrench during the military and afterward during college. So, I'm not afraid to at least try!! Maybe money saved, or not. The trk won't roll unless the measurements are within correct pattern perimeters, as DIY'er should adhere to. I should have spelled this part out due to some reading that I'm saying "just slam her in there boys and go!" Not!!

 

Whatever works for you. I would just caution anyone that can't check these pattern to go off of the assumption that you can replace the carrier and not need further setup. Your truck, your way. Someone else truck, someone elses way. I'd rather not assume.

 

Try to comprehend what's written. I never suggested what you say.

 

This sounds like a cool project and sounds like you’ve done the proper research. Looking forward to your success. Its always scary doing things for the first time. Exciting too!

 

Thnx. Been waiting for winter to do the major maintenance and upgrade projects. However, now that I'm an ole man, there will be way more often fun times looking for a wrench that's under my nose. Guess it'll be just the radio and no beer or people around to distract me.

 

Gung ho!