All good advise above, I’ll add my 2 cents
*ATRAC vs. Locker, not as good but my general opinion of debates like this is if you have to ask if you need a locker you are likely not going places that require one (I realize that is not what you were asking but treat it as a want vs. a need) - I fall into the category of buying it and not needing it, but it has helped a few times without a doubt
[MENTION=104049]marshal[/MENTION] is there Toyota literature on the systems being programmed differently between the SR5/ Trails, that’s news to me
*Transmission cooler, 15miles round trip I wouldn’t even bother, if you are really concerned drive slow and if the transmission temperatures do get elevated I ASSUME that you would through a code/check engine light which would be a good indication to slow down. If you want one for comfort It wouldn’t hurt but I don’t think I have ever seen an OEM cooler installed here. If it is integrated into the radiator it may not be possible or at least $$$ vs. just an aftermarket option
*Alternator, as you mentioned it’s not needed. There is a thread someone where on here IIRC that had an upgraded alternator but I think there were some issues with the install, no idea if it was resolved or not but worth a quick search if you ever decide to go down that path.
*Shocks , sound like a perfect candidate for Bilstein 5100’s from your choice of vendor
*Electronic vs Lever actuated Transfer Case: While I fall into the camp that loves my lever and was one of the main reason I bought the trail I would not say its worth it over the cost of the SR5 if you don’t value the other things that come with it such as trail wheels, hood scope , black interior trim, front and rear silver valence trim. crawl control, KDSS option, etc………to everyone those options etc are worth more or less, I liked the looks of the interior and exterior much better on the trail and had no plans to upgrade wheels so for the cost difference the Trail was the best value IMHO.
