2022 Toyota 4Runner Re-Gear & E-Locker Install: 4.56 Gears for Towing and Larger Tires

By Cross Edge Fabrication | Precision Differential Setup | Revolution Gears + Eaton E-Locker

When building a capable Toyota 4Runner that can tow with confidence and handle oversized tires, re-gearing your differentials is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. At Cross Edge Fabrication, we recently completed a full differential re-gear and Eaton E-Locker install on a 2022 Toyota 4Runner—tailored specifically for a customer dealing with poor highway performance while towing.

Let’s break down what we installed, why it matters, and how it transformed the performance of this 5th-gen rig.

The Problem: Factory 3.73 Gears Struggling with Load

The factory 3.73 gear ratio was insufficient for the demands of this build:

  • Running larger off-road tires

  • Towing trailers over steep terrain

  • Engine struggling to shift into overdrive on inclines

  • Poor throttle response and high RPMs under load

This 4Runner needed better torque multiplication, improved drivability, and more control—on and off the highway.

The Cross Edge Solution: 4.56 Gears + Eaton E-Locker

    Installed Components:

  • Revolution Gear & Axle 4.56 gear sets (front & rear)

  • Toyota 8” IFS Clamshell (Front)

  • Toyota 8.2” Rear Axle

  • Eaton E-Locker (Rear Differential)

  • OEM Toyota shims for precision fitment

    This setup restored factory-like drivability even with 33″–35″ tires, and drastically improved trail control with the on-demand locking differential.

 Why 4.56 Was the Right Choice

4.56 gear ratios provide the perfect balance for daily drivability, fuel economy, and towing performance for vehicles running larger-than-stock tires. In this case, it allowed the engine to stay within its ideal RPM band, engage overdrive under load, and maintain torque during climbs.

The Eaton E-Locker gives the driver full control over traction, enabling full lockup only when needed—making it a superior choice for overlanding and off-road flexibility without the quirks of an automatic locker.


 Results: Power Restored, Drivability Reclaimed

Post-install, the difference was immediate:

  • ✅ Smooth shifting into overdrive while towing

  • ✅ Better throttle response with larger tires

  • ✅ Lower strain on engine and transmission

  • ✅ Enhanced off-road control with selectable locking diff

Whether you’re towing a camper or climbing trails, a properly matched gear ratio is essential to reclaim lost performance and maximize your build’s potential.

 Why Choose Cross Edge Fabrication?

We specialize in precision differential work,  4×4 setups, and high-end skid plates installs. Every gear install is carefully setup, contact-pattern checked, and torqued to spec—done right the first time.

Based in Show Low Arizona and proudly serving the off-road, overland, and expedition vehicle community.

Ready to Re-Gear Your Toyota?

Whether you’re re-gearing for towing, trail riding, or oversized tires, we’ll set your rig up for success.

Contact us to schedule your differential service or locker install.