AXLE RATIO & IDENTIFICATION
Axle ratio may be determined by dividing number of ring gear teeth by number of teeth on drive pinion. Vehicles delivered from manufacturer with large tires have a higher numerical axle ratio. Equipping vehicles with larger diameter tires may alter axle ratio from factory specification.
DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
Drive axle assembly is a hypoid gear-type with integral housing. Drive pinion transfers power to the ring gear which provides power to the side gear shafts. Side gear shafts are connected to the axle shafts which transfer the power to the wheels. Drive pinion preload is adjusted using collapsible spacer. Side bearing preload is adjusted using plate washers.
Tacoma and 4Runner front differential may be equipped with an Automatic Disconnecting Differential (ADD). The ADD can be shifted from 2WD to 4WD with the vehicle moving. The ADD controls engagement of intermediate shaft on front differential to provide 4WD operation. On models without ADD, locking hubs are used on front axle to provide 4WD operation. For information on ADD, see DIFFERENTIAL - AUTOMATIC DISCONNECTING article.