Newbie needs help

[habu5150]

I just purchased a 1997 4Runner. I understand how the ECT button works, but I am unfamilier with the 2WD and 4WD Hi Low settings and all that. On my dad's old jeep (back in the early 80's), I simple got out and locked the front hubs. How does this work? Can I switch on the fly? What driving conditions are best for which settings? Thanks.

 

[sketch1]

The manual should tell you all the specifics.

 

[fourwd1]

The manual should tell you all the specifics.

Big help :rolleye2: Why bother posting ?




2WD is normal (rear wheel drive)
4WD Hi is for slippery/wet/snowy/etc. conditions where additional traction is wanted (front and rear wheel drive). Usually can be used up to 40 MPH or so. Can usually be shift-on-fly at low speeds.
4WD Low uses the transfer cases Low range, when additional torque is needed (you're really stuck, steep hill, heavy load, etc.)
Should only be used under poor traction conditions, a low speeds (you really can't go fast in low range anyway), and not on a dry pavement. Come to a complete stop before shifting in/out of Low range (not shift on fly).

You don't have any manual hubs to get out and lock/unlock.

There's more to it, this is just the basics.

 

[habu5150]

Thanks!

 

[4reak]

Big help :rolleye2: Why bother posting ?




2WD is normal (rear wheel drive)
4WD Hi is for slippery/wet/snowy/etc. conditions where additional traction is wanted (front and rear wheel drive). Usually can be used up to 40 MPH or so. Can usually be shift-on-fly at low speeds.
4WD Low uses the transfer cases Low range, when additional torque is needed (you're really stuck, steep hill, heavy load, etc.)
Should only be used under poor traction conditions, a low speeds (you really can't go fast in low range anyway), and not on a dry pavement. Come to a complete stop before shifting in/out of Low range (not shift on fly).

You don't have any manual hubs to get out and lock/unlock.

There's more to it, this is just the basics.

Wow, your post is actually really helpful! I greatly appreaciate it. but i have some further questions, now forgive me if i disgrace 4runner owners worldwide! when you are shifting from 2wd to 4wd, you shift while in D(drive) correct? or do you have to switch to N(neutral)? is there anytime where you shift the 4wd and you will be in N?

 

[4runner414]

I'm guessing this is true for the 4th gen. as well? I'm personally a fan of the manual shifting 4wd/lockers.

 

[techno]

Originally posted by 4reak
when you are shifting from 2wd to 4wd, you shift while in D(drive) correct? or do you have to switch to N(neutral)? is there anytime where you shift the 4wd and you will be in N?

You can shift from 2H to 4H in any gear. If you are moving when you shift, only do so whilst driving straight and under 50 mph (or something like that).
When shifting from 4H to 4L, you MUST be stopped and in neutral.

 

[4reak]

You can shift from 2H to 4H in any gear. If you are moving when you shift, only do so whilst driving straight and under 50 mph (or something like that).
When shifting from 4H to 4L, you MUST be stopped and in neutral.

thanks for the reply. can you shift the 4wd while in 2nd or L?

 

[techno]

Yes

 

[4reak]

Yes

thanks, im going to go out and try it. thanks again.

 

[pius222]

Helpful!

Wow, this thread is super helpful, short yet informative, and comprehensible. You guys are so patient and ya'll rock!!!

 

[richbaker]

for real i have to try that too.. thanks anyway!