4Runner 1998 SR5 V6 Automatic - Rear Locking Differential?

[farmerjon]

New 4Runner owner here:

I have a 1998 4Runner SR5 4WD with a four speed automatic transmission, and I've read that the rear locking differentials are optional on ALL 4WD *except* those with automatic transmissions.

Off-road enthusiasts will find improved low-traction performance available through a locking rear differential, optional on all four-wheel drive models (except SR5 models equipped with automatic transmission). Sporting a 4.3:1 differential gear ratio, this feature locks the rear wheels together while in low-4WD, forcing both wheels to turn together.​

From: Toyota 4Runner History 1998

What does this mean? That my 4Runner does not have a rear locking differential? If it does, how can I use it?

Thanks!

 

[tbst]

Is there a button to the left of your steering wheel? If so, then you have one more than likely unless someone took it out.

 

[farmerjon]

Is there a button to the left of your steering wheel? If so, then you have one more than likely unless someone took it out.

I actually haven't picked up this vehicle yet and there is no photo of the dash between the steering wheel and the driver's door.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Not sure what exactly your question is here but you can 100% get a rear locker with an auto transmission. The e-locker was an option, some have it, some don't. The button is exactly where tbst said it would be. Ask for some interior pictures and see if you can spot the button without calling the seller's attention to it.

 

[farmerjon]

Thanks for the reply! Good idea about the interior pics.

The question is if ALL Automatic transmission SR5's in the 1998 year come with a rear differential locking, based on the way the quote I quoted is written...

 

[PitbullRescuer]

No, not all of them do. I actually read it the other way, I read to mean that it wasn't an option on automatic SR5's. But it was available as an option on both SR5's and Limited's.

 

[farmerjon]

No, not all of them do. I actually read it the other way, I read to mean that it wasn't an option on automatic SR5's. But it was available as an option on both SR5's and Limited's.

I see. So you're saying that SR5 automatics will NEVER have them, unless they are aftermarket's?

Thanks!

 

[PitbullRescuer]

No. I'm saying that it might have one, might not. The article you quoted was incorrect in saying that SR5's aren't available with one.

 

[farmerjon]

No. I'm saying that it might have one, might not. The article you quoted was incorrect in saying that SR5's aren't available with one.

Thanks, I was a bit confused between the article and how you read it and how I read it

Cheers!