Expert: Dave Norgardt - 1/20/2012

Question
can i use a rear end of an 02 toyota prerunner(4x2) to replace the rear end on my 85 toyota sr5 pickup(4x4)?

Answer
Hi Jim!.....This is a question that I cannot honestly answer without doing some research...Sorry....My suggestion to you, would be to contact your local Toyota Dealership's parts and service departments.....There, they should be able to give you some advice and direction...Another option is to call your local Auto wreckers as well....From the 30 years that I have been doing Autobody and Mechanical, I have obviously run into problems switching over parts from one vehicle to another, even parts from the same year of vehicle....Sometimes, there is a mid year change, which will render the same year part unusable....In the case of a differential, if by chance they are interchangable, you must consider gear ratio...It has to be exactly the same as the front differential, otherwise you will burn out the transfer case...Bolt pattern, be it 4 on 4, 5 on 4, or 5 on 4 1/2, should ultimately be the same, otherwise, you will be looking for new axles to accomodate your existing rims, or Visa Versa....Width of the axle should also be considered...If it is too wide or too narrow, you will need a positive or negative offset wheel rim to accomodate the tire/rim assembly to fit inside the wheelhouse....Hope this is at least of some help....Please write back if you have any more questions.....Thanks...Dave