Power and traction are the two most important factors that make movement possible. Every vehicle driving on or off the road relies on traction, or friction, to transfer momentum and force the object forward or backwards. With the launch of Eaton’s ELocker differential for 2016 and newer Toyota Tacomas equipped with manual transmissions, these celebrated pickup trucks have an all-new aftermarket drop-in advantage.

At the flip of a switch, the ELocker will send 100-percent torque and equal amounts of power to each wheel through the electronically controlled locking differential. This affordable upgrade is easily installed, and provides improved off-road performance capabilities right at the driver’s fingertips.

Eaton’s ELocker Benefits

• Driver Selectable Operation
• Net-Forged Gears For Added Strength
• Full Axle Lock For Driver Command (Normally Open = Fully ‘Streetable’)
• Maintenance Free – No Special Lubrication Or Friction Modifiers Required
• Most Reliable On-Demand Differential
• Works In Forward Or Reverse

Eaton’s ELocker designed specifically for Toyota Tacomas with manual transmissions, model years 2016 to present with an 8.9-inch ring gear and 32-spline axle. It is part of a lineup that includes 11 other ELocker differentials previously released in the past year that fit Toyota 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Tundra, and older Tacoma models. Additionally, there are 14 new aftermarket differential part numbers for a variety of late-model vehicles.

For more information and an application guide, check out Eaton Performance. 

The Toyota Tacoma Platform Is Well Suited For A Locking Differential

Drivers of Toyota vehicles are well-known for their work-hard-play-hard lifestyle. When a segment’s vehicle owners speak and call for specific component upgrades, it is refreshing to have a major aftermarket manufacturer listen. “We heard requests from Toyota truck enthusiasts and went to work to fulfill their needs,” said Corneliu Bogdan, Director of Aftermarket Product Strategy, Eaton’s Vehicle Group North America. “We’re glad to introduce new products that help them enjoy their outdoor lifestyle.”

Click here to view Eaton’s official product release announcement.

Eaton differentials are made of net-forged hardened and high-strength steel. They have gone through rigorous testing processes that include field testing and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to simulate extreme driving situations. The price point is reasonable, and includes a one-year factory warranty.

Precision Engineering, Top Tier Materials, And Rigorous Testing Built In

Knowing this seems to check all the boxes. However, we at Off Road Xtreme have plans to take a closer look at the various kinds of aftermarket differentials available, including Eaton’s ELocker. We want to examine the differences between  limited slip, fully locked, and spool differentials. We’ll also walk readers through what they need to know before buying, picking the right differential for the right application, and what makes a quality differential. Stay tuned!