Help With 4x4 system - Toyota 4Runner Forum

hiluxsurf1 · 08-23-2022, 03:26 PM

This is my first 4x4 and I really would appreciate knowing how to use the 4x4 system. I have the transfer box lever shown, I understand you push the button on the side to change between h2 and h4, N is obviously neutral. But what is the little L for, does it lock the rear diff? I have no switch around the steering wheel for and other locker.

Also what types of terrain would I use each selection on, I’m thinking, muddy flat field, hilly farmland, beach, riversides etc?
Sorry for the novice questions

turbo8 · 08-23-2022, 03:35 PM

You have the multi mode transfercase.

I think this should answer most of your questions, from the owners manual.

1999 Toyota 4runner Manuals & Warranties | Toyota Owners

turbo8 · 08-23-2022, 04:04 PM

With the mutimode transfercase you have the following drive modes:

2WD H2
Normal driving on dry paved roads

AWD H4 center diff unlocked (Activated with the 4wd button)
Driving on slippery paved roads (road with intermittent snow\wet\ice)

4WD H4L center diff locked
Driving on gravel, sand, snow, muddy non paved roads

4WD L4L (low range with center diff locked)
Driving on gravel, sand, snow, muddy non paved roads that generally are steep and require very low speeds (under 10MPH/15KPH). Will help when going down steep declines as well.

T4topher · 08-23-2022, 04:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by turbo8

With the mutimode transfercase you have the following drive modes:

2WD H2
Normal driving on dry paved roads

AWD H4 center diff unlocked (Activated with the 4wd button)
Driving on slippery paved roads (road with intermittent snow\wet\ice)

4WD H4L center diff locked
Driving on gravel, sand, snow, muddy non paved roads

4WD L4L (low range with center diff locked)
Driving on gravel, sand, snow, muddy non paved roads that generally are steep and require very low speeds (under 10MPH/15KPH). Will help when going down steep declines as well.

Very good explanations here, one thing I’ll add is when i shift to L4L (make sure transmission is in neutral when you do) I usually also put the transmission shifter on the Lowest gear as well (L) to prevent the transmission from hunting for gears while driving in L4L.

hiluxsurf1 · 08-23-2022, 06:41 PM

Thanks guys these answers are great, just what I’m looking for

Bad Luck · 08-23-2022, 07:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hiluxsurf1

Thanks guys these answers are great, just what I’m looking for

The multimode system can be a little finicky sometimes. If you change between 2hi/4hi/4hi locked and the dash lights start flashing that means the system is trying to engage/disengage to whatever setting you are going for. Once the lights are solid you have achieved that setting.

I found that I had to be moving for the system to change settings. Sometimes steering back and forth left/right or coasting was necessary to change settings as well. It takes some experimenting to find what works best for your vehicle.

It’s also recommended to use the 4wd at least once per month to make sure it doesn’t seize.

Unner · 08-23-2022, 08:30 PM

All the above advice is good and correct.

If your system hasn't been exercised regularly it may take awhile for it to shift in and out of 4wd and to lock the center diff. Use it frequently and it should shift quickly and smoothly. The "all wheel drive" function is one of my favorite things about my 4runners. It's nice to be able to just put it in AWD when the road starts to get a little dicey.

Don't drive around in 4wd with the center diff locked on dry pavement too much or you'll bind the system up. You'll be able to feel it if that's happening.

4Lo helps keep your transmission temps down too if you're crawling up steep hills at very low speeds off road.

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