Locking the differential

[DC Dude]

Instructions needed on how to go from 4HI to 4LO with differential locked.

Also, do most people try to drive with 4LO and then if you're still stuck, then lock the differential?

Need also the steps to switch back to 4HI.

 

[M1911]

Read your manual.

 

[manhunter]

SOme of it may depend on the year model. I have an 02, so here is my sequence. If I want to go into 4-hi for rain and wet streets, or light trails, I simply push in the button on the left-hand side of the 4wd selector, which you can do while moving up to 50-60 mph, but I don't recommend doing it while moving if on real icy or slick roads. To go into 4-lo, you need to put the transmission into neutral, then push the 4wd selector forward, then shift the transmission to drive, (I use L-2 while on the trails), ....., don't want to exceed 40 mph in 4-lo. You can down-shift to L-1 if the situation calls for it (steep hills, etc...) If you want to use your center diff lock, push in the VSC TRAC button until it shows a light on the dash that it is off, when it is off, then your center diff is locked. It just takes doing it a few times to get the hang of it. And, it also helps to read your manual, that is where I learned most of this prior to hitting the trails.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Instructions needed on how to go from 4HI to 4LO with differential locked. Stop or slow roll (under 2-3mph) in 'N'. Select 4lo and wait for the lights to stop flashing. If it beeps slow down more or better yet stop and try again.

Also, do most people try to drive with 4LO and then if you're still stuck, then lock the differential? I think most lock the diff in the beginning. Are you talking about off-roading or driving in lots of snow? IMHO 4lo has limited value in snow driving. Buried in a snowbank is one time and even that's a "maybe".

Need also the steps to switch back to 4HI. Assuming you're coming from 4lo locked you have two choices: Unlock the diff, then stop, place it in 'N' and select 4hi. OR stop, place in 'N' select 4hi. Then unlock the diff. What I have found to be important is one thing at a time, in other words complete the lock/unlock or the 4hi to 4lo to 4hi. Make a selection, wait until the dash lights are solid, not flashing, and then make the next selection.

Does that help?
:cheers:

 

[DC Dude]

Does that help?
:cheers:

Thanks to those with the tips.

So it sounds like I can also lock the differential for 4Hi.

Sounds like shifting from 4Hi to 4Lo (and back) requires shifting to neutral.

Locking the differential does not, but one should be stopped before pushing the differential lock button.

Right?

This is for snow driving, in case I get stuck.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Thanks to those with the tips.

So it sounds like I can also lock the differential for 4Hi. Yep

Sounds like shifting from 4Hi to 4Lo (and back) requires shifting to neutral. Correct...

Locking the differential does not, but one should be stopped before pushing the differential lock button. Not necessarily. I lock and unlock 'on the fly' all of the time. I am sure the manual suggests some max speed for locking and unlocking the center diff. I don't know what it is. I don't lock or unlock above 50mph or so. Once locked (or unlocked) there is no speed limit. 4hi 'locked' can be used at any speed. 4lo is of course limited to the top-speed of 4lo. The caution I would give about high speeds in 4hi 'locked' is the vehicle doesn't handle quite as well with the diff lock engaged AND you'll receive no assistance from VSC should you begin to slide.

Right?

This is for snow driving, in case I get stuck.

In these two threads a few of us posted some thoughts on snow driving with a 4th gen 4Runner (including when 4lo might be appropriate). While not exactly what your were asking about they are worth a read IMHO.
[url=http://www.toyota-4runner.org/off-roading-home-monst4rs/59484-recovery.html]The main theme is recovery but some good comments and tips on snow driving:bigok:[/URL]
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/60749-i-need-some-snow-driving-advice.html