If the 'part time' system is an open transfer case by default then it should be fine in 4H all the time - correct?

Can someone please quote the manual?


JG

You explain it correctly, but that means that it is not more or less like the CX9 - it is nothing like it.... The CX9 is a 2wd system that kicks in automatically when it slips. The 5th Gen 4Runner Limited is a full time 4wd system - always providing power to all four wheels. Then you change the amount of power with the 4WH. So great detail about how that works in your post though.

(i can't tell if you're making fun of me or not, but) you're absolutely right that "more or less" was a lousy choice of words. mea culpa!

Its locked by default and with no center diff there is no way to "unlock" it.

Wasn't looking at making fun of you or really tell you something - you obviously know how it works. It was more a clarification for someone else that might just read the first part of your post.

One of the things we looked for was a full time 4wd system vs. the "kick-in" system. Call me old school / stupid / stubborn whatever you want, I just don't like the principle that once you are slipping we will do something about it.....

That definately limited our choices of vehicles, but so far we are very happy with the 4Runner

Thank you sandcrawler and others for the helping hand!!!

Here's what my manual says:

Shifting between H2 and H4
n Shifting from H2 to H4
Reduce vehicle speed to less than 50 mph (80 km/h).
Shift the front-wheel drive control lever to H4.
The four-wheel drive indicator will turn on.
n Shifting from H4 to H2
Shift the front-wheel drive control lever to H2.
This can be done at any speed.
The four-wheel drive indicator will go off.
Shifting between H4 and L4
Stop the vehicle completely.
Shift the shift lever to N.
Shift the front-wheel drive control lever to L4 or H4.
The low speed four-wheel drive indicator will turn on (L4) or go off
(H4).
n When the front-wheel drive control lever is shifted to L4
VSC and TRAC (TRC) are automatically turned off.
n If the four-wheel drive indicator flashes
The transfer mode may not successfully change. Drive straight ahead while
accelerating or decelerating, or drive in reverse.
n If the four-wheel drive or low speed four-wheel drive indicator flashes
rapidly
There may be a malfunction in the four-wheel drive system. Have the vehicle
inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
n Four-wheel drive usage frequency
You should drive in four-wheel drive for at least 10 miles (16 km) each
month.
This will assure that the front drive components are lubricated.
STEP