Confused..

[Fingerinthedam]

I'm looking for a 4x4 and I'm a little confused about the V8 4Runners. I see some listed for sale as being 2wd but my understanding is that all V8 T4R's are all wheel drive, correct? To add to my confusion I've seen pictures on here of V8's with the 4x4 selector switch on the dash next to the radio.

So what gives? I've read the sticky about pre-purchase info which says all the V8's are AWD but I'm confused as to why some 4th Gens have the selector switch and some don't.

 

[scw1991]

4HI to 4LO ??

 

[S p a r k y]

I'm looking for a 4x4 and I'm a little confused about the V8 4Runners. I see some listed for sale as being 2wd but my understanding is that all V8 T4R's are all wheel drive, correct? To add to my confusion I've seen pictures on here of V8's with the 4x4 selector switch on the dash next to the radio.

So what gives? I've read the sticky about pre-purchase info which says all the V8's are AWD but I'm confused as to why some 4th Gens have the selector switch and some don't.

V8's come in 2wd and all time 4x4! The AWD have a selector switch for low gear 4x4!

 

[Fingerinthedam]

Ok so there are some V8's that are not AWD/4x4? My understanding was that if it was a V8, it was AWD.

 

[KidVermicious]

my understanding is that all V8 T4R's are all wheel drive, correct?

All 4Runners are 2WD, or 4WD with a real transfer case. No 4Runner has ever been built with AWD. Some 4WD trucks have Toyota's "Multimode" system, which is a center differential built into the transfer case that allows slip between the front and rear driveshaft and permits regular use of 4WD on pavement. Multimode is not AWD, although it seems like about half the board persists in thinking so.

Once you know to search for "multimode" and ignore anybody who calls it AWD, you should have an easier time dispelling your confusion. To answer your specific question though, there are 2WD V8 4th gen 4Runners.

 

[Fingerinthedam]

Ok thanks that clears it up. I don't always rely on a seller's description and like to look for the selector switch to make sure it's 4wd.

 

[Fox198033]

I have an 03 V8 4x4. It is constantly in 4h mode with a selector to put it in 4lo. After reading the manual on it. Toyota says I am always in 4h with the center diff unlocked. It runs 40% of the power to the front wheels and 60% to the rear. Hence its ALL WHEEL DRIVE. There are some V8s mostly sport models I believe that were strictly 2wd. Its nice since when I hit the trails I don't need to put it in 4x4 mode. I can lock the center diff for 50/50 power. And put it into 4lo. Its a pretty nice system and works well. A-trac is also on all 4th gens and replaces the rear locker in previous models. Never had a problem with any of them and never been stuck. And the V8 is very worth it if you plan to tow or like the power!