2003 all time 4x4? Or can it go RWD only? Confused over easy stuff :(

[inerax]

Forgive me, I am confused over something I should not be. I purchased a 03 Limited V8 4x4. The 4x4 selector knob only has 4H and 4L. There is also a button with 2 wheels and an x where the center diff is. This shows center diff lock indicator.

When this light is on what does that mean? What does it mean when it is off? Posted a screen grab from the manual.

Is this 4runner full time 4x4 or can it just be 4x2 when 4x4 is not needed? If it can be 4x2, what light should be on/off and how can I test it?

Thank you everyone!

 

[Wingman707]

4x4 Only

I will be the numb nuts to answer this question for you. Please chime in to correct any information that is questionable.
It sounds like you have a all time 4x4 that can not be switched to a 2x4. This is one of my biggest gripes re: my toyota. Your selection can be 4x4, 4x4 with center diff lock, 4x4 Lo, 4x4 Lo with diff lock. It has been advised to not lock your center differential while on paved surfaces. It can damage the gears. However, it can be used to climb out of narly gravel and rock.
I have used it to escalate an evacuation from washouts, loose gravel hill climbs. When you start to stall in a climb, you can lock the diff before you go into 4x4 Lo. If that doesn't work, switch off the diff lock and switch to 4x4 Lo. If the problem persists, switch your diff lock back on in your Lo gear. If that doesn't work, call a tow truck. There is some debate weather to use it on icey roads. I have heard (not experienced) that running with a locked diff can make it feel like rolling on marbles.
So, sorry in advance for not being able to spin donuts with your buddies. Power understeer can occur which will typically end you in a location that is less desirable.

 

[Inv4drZm]

Yes, the full time 4wd was only available with the V8. Center Diff Lock Info Thread
If you need more info, search the forums or read your vehicle's manual if you have it.

 

[inerax]

I will be the numb nuts to answer this question for you. Please chime in to correct any information that is questionable.
It sounds like you have a all time 4x4 that can not be switched to a 2x4. This is one of my biggest gripes re: my toyota. Your selection can be 4x4, 4x4 with center diff lock, 4x4 Lo, 4x4 Lo with diff lock. It has been advised to not lock your center differential while on paved surfaces. It can damage the gears. However, it can be used to climb out of narly gravel and rock.
I have used it to escalate an evacuation from washouts, loose gravel hill climbs. When you start to stall in a climb, you can lock the diff before you go into 4x4 Lo. If that doesn't work, switch off the diff lock and switch to 4x4 Lo. If the problem persists, switch your diff lock back on in your Lo gear. If that doesn't work, call a tow truck. There is some debate weather to use it on icey roads. I have heard (not experienced) that running with a locked diff can make it feel like rolling on marbles.
So, sorry in advance for not being able to spin donuts with your buddies. Power understeer can occur which will typically end you in a location that is less desirable.

Yes, the full time 4wd was only available with the V8. Center Diff Lock Info Thread
If you need more info, search the forums or read your vehicle's manual if you have it.

You guys rock. Thank you. Kind of is a bummer its full time 4x4. But has been a great 4runner so far!