4wd question

[99yota4]

I have searched and found no specific answer. I know this is a silly question but I don't have the owners manual for my 4runner highlander edition NO rear e-diff lock.

Now I was on my way home and wanted to test out the 4wd shifting. What is the proper way to go from 2HI to 4HI and to 4LOw. I'm afraid of shifting that thing now because I heard grinding of the gears. Also, the light on the dash for the 4wd system didn't turn on when I got it into 4HI. The 4wd indicator is on the far right bottom of the instrument panel. I know the shifting process is different with the many 4runner types in the 3rd gen. Mine is a 1999 4runner SR5 with the hoodscoop and small fender flares "highlander" edition I believe. Automatic with the 4wd shifter to the left of the auto shifter. Thanks

 

[cwrose]

IIRC, the 1999 Highlander models have the multi-mode 4wd, meaning you have a 2H; 4H (center diff unlocked, aka AWD); 4Hl (center diff locked, aka 4WD); and a 4L. I am sorry if my memory is serving me wrong, but this should get you going.

2hi to 4hi:

while traveling in a straight line going no more than 52mph (I think, don't quote me. I always do it around 30mph), simply ease off the gas and slide the transfer case lever from 2hi to 4hi. Sometimes it engages instantly, sometimes it takes a second. If you have the 4wd "button" on the tcase lever, simply push that instead of moving the lever. I can't remember the 1999 Highlander layout. I've driven all generation 4runners and currently it's my gf's 2002 that I drive on occasion. Either way, this should help you on your way.

4H to 4Hl:

If my memory serves me right, a 1999 highlander model should have a position on the tcase lever labeled 4Hl. If this is the case, then this would be to engage true 4wd with the center diff locked. I've always locked the center diff while traveling forward in a straight line going no more than 5mph. Simply move the lever the same way you did going into 4hi.

4Hl to 4L:

I've always rolled to a stop, put it in neutral and move the lever from 4H to 4L. Put it back in drive and ease forward as 4L engages.

To get back to 2H, simply reverse the process.

I hope this helps.

 

[Pikeman]

wether he has the Multi Mode tansfer case or the standard transfer case ca change from 2Hi-4Hi up to 50mph by pulling straight back as long as the wheels are not spinning. The front and rear tires need to be spinning at the same rate for the gears to line up. To go into 4Lo you are also correct that he will need to come to a stop shift transmission into Neutral and then select 4Lo place back into drive and move along.

 

[99yota4]

Thanks guy, I will try this out first thing in the morning. Anyone else have more information specific to the 1999 highlander edition?

 

[KellyJ]

Check out this link, there is a plethora of info on the 3rd generation here:

Toyota 4Runner History 1999