I currently drive a 99 Rodeo and have no complaints, just need a truck I'm looking at 98 model years ex-cab, V6.

After some searching of topics I still have a few questions.
Motor is 3.4 v6 any problems?
Axle ratios are 3.91 and 4.10 (option)
What is the Transfer case ratio?
What years were the rear e-locker available and was it only in the TRD package? If they don't have the locker is it at least limited slip?
Any problems I should be looking for ie. trans, engine, heads, axles?
What is the largest tire size without and with 1-1/2" lift?

If the Toy board is anywhere as good as the ZU' board I know you won't lead me astray. TIA

Tim B.
99 Isuzu Rodeo

<small>[ February 28, 2003, 06:40 PM: Message edited by: TLB ]</small>

ill try to answer as much as i can <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />

i haven't heard of any problems with the 3.4lt
if your getting the taco i would recomend getting it with it <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="images/icons/wink.gif" />

i think that the taco is 410 on the rear but i (that is what i have heard for the stock trucks that came with 31's)can't tell you because my rear diff code is a ? instead of the numbers <img border="0" title="" alt="[Confused]" src="images/icons/confused.gif" />

i can't remember the transfer case ratio <img border="0" title="" alt="[Frown]" src="images/icons/frown.gif" />

i have only heard of the factory elocker coming with the trd package
not sure if the non trd had limited or not

only problems that i have with my 98 is that there is NO way to grease the front end(tie rods bushings . . .) for some reason toyota sealed everything in the front
oh yeah if you get a taco with A.D.D. hubs (auto lockers) and not manuals i have heard not to go over a 2,1/2 to 3 inch spacer lift because the cv's can't handle it

i know that stock hight can handle 31's with no problems

1,1/2 lift you might squeeze 32's but they will rub (at least i think <img border="0" title="" alt="[Big Grin]" src="images/icons/grin.gif" /> )

Thanks for the info, and about the manual vs- auto hubs, how easy to find and install manuals. I would prefer manual hubs any day.

Thanks again

Tim B.

3.4L Some have reported sludge buildup - look for at least yearly oil changes

3.91/4.10 That may/may not all the ratios offered for that year, but most sticks have 3.91, autos 4.10

Low Range should be 2.57:1

No limited slips; Rumor has e-lockers in some LX models prior to TRD models, you can't miss the actuator on the driver's side of the third member, or the switch in the dash (RR DIFF LOCK) should be easy enough to ask about over the phone.

We have had a few tranny posts, this one might be of interest.

The manual hub conversion is involved & expensive. Here's Yogi's List, and the Off Road Solutions Kit.

As was stated, you need at least 2" to fit 32/11.50s. And all wider tires will rub the frame.

Seeing that you live in Clinton, my first suggestion is DON'T buy your Toy from that Dodge/Toyota dealership in Bountiful.

It took 4 months, 5 letters to Toyota, and a threat of a lawsuit to finally get them to get things straightened out. (sort of)
<img border="0" title="" alt="[Mad]" src="images/icons/mad.gif" />

I believe there's now a technical bulletin addressing the sludge problem, but it seems the 3.4's are not affected.

Consumer affairs report

Autonews article

Also be prepared to experience a small but annoying problem called axle wrap. Here's some threads on the subject.

Axle wrap 1

Axle wrap 2

It's apparently very common in Toyotas, not serious, and the dealerships are no help in trying to fix it.

Other than lousy dealerships, it's a good truck. It does Moab better than my old Ford could ever do. (Though, I still kinda miss the old clunker)

<img border="0" title="" alt="[Frown]" src="images/icons/frown.gif" />

<small>[ March 01, 2003, 07:41 PM: Message edited by: Hounder ]</small>

the axle rap problem you can't really help except have a light foot when on the brake

or if you really think its a problem use a set of heavier duty springs or a ladder bar setup

<small>[ March 01, 2003, 04:37 PM: Message edited by: X-CUTIONER ]</small>

I agree, the 3.4L hasn't been reported as having sludge problems. But if my memory serves me correctly, I thought Gadget bought a used 3.4L that was full of sludge. I just can't seem to find the pictures. Oh well, yearly oil changes is always good advice <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="images/icons/wink.gif" />