Hey yall, I am new to the site because i just picked up a wrecked 04 4runner with 31k miles for my wife (really 4 me) and rebuilt it... I am just about done with it and I believe it is an all time 4WD model (swich only has 4H and 4L). I have read multiple posts about having issues engaging 4L on this site. I have tried rolling in neutral, shifting in and out of neutral, going in reverse, and doing all of the above on asphalt and on dirt. The light just flashed and makes this annoying beeping noise. Is their any other advice you guys could give me about diagnosing this problem. I would think it would be from the wreck except for the fact that it did not get into the suspension, transfer case, or frame at all. this is my fourth Toyota but first 4runner so I am a little stumped. Any help would be very much appreciated.
2004 lmt v8 4L will not engage
- Thread starter rokrunner
- Start date
Register to hide this ad
Synister
Member
An 04 with such low miles probably saw zero offroad time, much less offroad time requiring 4L. A stuck actuator is a pretty common problem and the only thing that Ive seen that works is to get a rubber mallet or something similar and gently tap on the actual actuator while 4L is selected. Obviously this involves climbing under the car while its in neutral so common sense parking brake, chocks, etc apply. Gentle taps while the actuator is trying to engage is probably your best bet short of replacing the whole thing.
03_4x4Runner
Senior Member
Do a search on this it is a common problem from non use. Some have had to replace the actuator at $2500.
NEW actuator shouldn't be more than 800 bucks, I have a 2003 and I have my actuator completely disassembled, I am learning how it all works but still some things I have to figure out to get the timing right. Maybe I know what you need to know and visa versa.
I don't see a reason to get a new actuator though, I am sure everything inside your actuator is intact, just sounds like the timing is off. If you are still trying to get it, let's put two heads on this, the toyota techs won't even mess with it
I don't see a reason to get a new actuator though, I am sure everything inside your actuator is intact, just sounds like the timing is off. If you are still trying to get it, let's put two heads on this, the toyota techs won't even mess with it
