Diff drop - damaging?

asjch3 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-20-2008, 08:25 AM

I've got a Total Chaos differential drop installed, is this in any way detrimental to my transfer case and front drivetrain in the long term? Does it cause loss of 4x4 capabilities? I was on a very icy uphill driveway earlier today in 4x4 and about mid way up, I stopped. As I got on the gas again, only the rear tires spun, the front didn't spin so I had to back down the drive way and try again. This time the front hooked up, I could feel it. Maybe it wasn't fully engaged? The 4x4 light was steadily on, so I assumed it was good to go. Any ideas or info on this matter?

apimpdad · #2 (**permalink**) 03-20-2008, 11:07 AM

i had a toytec diff. drop for about 3 years, and i never once had a problem with it. many say not to install one because it doesn't drop the front diff, but only rotates the front of it down, which creates a crappy front pinion angle. But, it only changes the pinion angle by a few very minor degrees, nothing to worry about.

jaegermeister · #3 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008, 10:23 PM

My cv boots ended up leaking even with the diff drop, so if I ever feel ambitious, I think I'll just take it out. At least one front shaft will remain in good factory position instead of none of them!

Kevo · #4 (**permalink**) 03-31-2008, 09:47 AM

I thought it was pretty much required that a Tundra needed a diff drop with any kind lift.

DevinSixtySeven · #5 (**permalink**) 03-31-2008, 12:13 PM

They're cheap insurance. Not having one won't kill ya, having one won't hurt anything. They lower the CV joints about 1/2", that is all. It's a simple case of less angle is better, and it's not much but it's better than nothing.

It has no other affect on your drivetrain. Do the later model 1st-gens have a center differential or a transfer case? I don't remember and I'm not sure. If center diff, that could be why you experienced what you did, but I thought they had a transfer case, which would mean you would have been spinning a front wheel but might not have noticed at the time.

-Sean

BlueRanger · #6 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 12:45 AM

Those that argue the pinion angle being extreme need to look at some rock crawling rigs. Ive had mine for 2 years now, no issues, and the pinion angle is extremely negligible. My CVs still ended up tearing, but at least it helps a little.