As I mentioned above, the traction control that applies braking to stop wheel spin across an axle is on all the time (unless it was changed since 2008, check your manual).

Here's my take: 12 to 17 psi will get the traction way up, that's probably all that was needed. How low to go depends on how stiff the tires are, how large the tires are, rim size, weight, terrain, etc. Temperature affects how stiff tires are, so I'll air down more when it's colder. For me, typically about 1" of height decrease from normal pressure gives about the right amount of extra tread on the ground. But at 30 psi, I doubt there was any measurable change.

Slow and steady in 4LO would be my preference with the terrain described. As you know, using speed and momentum can work, or it can damage something.

 

If it is selectable, it is not a LSD, it would be a full locker. Either way, even a LSD would make a good difference for a climb like that compared to open.

 

Unless it is an Auburn Ected, which I have on my front axle ...

http://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/tr...-differential/

 

Here's a description of the Tacoma's traction options: Limited slip diff operation - Tacoma World Forums. Could be an e-locker, or the standard diff-brake version similar to the Jeep's. Maybe the OP knows?

 

I had a 2011 Tacoma with all the bells n whistles. I went every place my buddies with Rubicons went so long as I didn't get high centered. The ATRAC on the Tacoma which uses the ABS system to apply power to spinning wheels works very well if you know how to use it properly.

 

So he has a limited slip (good) that locks on command (awesome) and you have an open dif (not so good) and you need to air down more...like16-18psi
Either way hes got locker on ya.

I dont always drive where others cant. but when I do, its in my Jeep. Stay muddy my friends

 

Here's a good Chrysler write-up on the Jeeps brake traction control: Chrysler Blog - Jeep Brake Traction Control Explained

 

Thank for all the help guys. Lots of good info.

Turns out he doesn't have a rear locker, the selectable switch he was talking about was a traction control button. Ha!

So now a question about the Brake Lock Diff after reading that awesome article on it.

I'm surprised I have not seen it work or even felt it engage.

I'm guessing that I'm not driving the jeep right and giving it a chance to let the BLD work. Anytime I felt a slip and tires started to spin, I would stop, and try again and again. After reading that article, it mentioned you have to keep on the gas when there is wheel spin to let the system know it has to work. I don't think I ever did that. I would immediately let off the gas, hit the brake, reverse, and try again.

So any advise for learning how to better use the BLD? Driving style?

Do you guys with autos, use the slap stick and select gears in 4L? Or just keep it in Drive?

 

Great! Lots of good Info!

 

Ran across this video a while ago that will probably help with using the BLD. Only thing I'd add is that yours a few years newer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv2DKDinfj0