Technical differences between 2WD and 4WD

[kylebacc]

Hey guys,

I had a question about the differences between the 2WD and 4WD 4Runners. I am talking about a 2006 V6 with the 5 speed tranny. My question is, do the 2/4WD's have different transmissions? Or are they the same transmission, just with the transfer case bolted to it? Also, does anyone have any idea if the additional 4WD wiring is already in the 2WD (for the ECU, VSC, DAC, etc)? I feel like it might be there because under my center console right where the DAC button would be, there is a loose wire with a connector on the end... any thoughts/info?

Thanks for any info you can provide!

 

[CJ3Flyr]

This comes up once in a while... Bottom line is it is not practical. The transmission tail housing and output shaft is different. The 4wd controller is missing, the wires may or may not be there; I'd expected they're not. The ECM is different.

Even with this list you still have not purchased a t-case, F&R driveshaft, front axle, 4wd spindles etc.

It just doesn't make sense.
:cheers:

 

[MikesToy]

This comes up once in a while... Bottom line is it is not practical. It just doesn't make sense.
:cheers:

:boink:

 

[kylebacc]

Yes I realize that most of you feel this may be an impractical undertaking, but I would like the information regardless. If you know it, please share. Most of this stuff if not really that expensive, with the exception of the 4WD transmission, which runs for $999 with ~50,000 miles on it. ECU - $250 t-Case - $499 front IFS axles - $160x2 etc etc. All parts prices are OBO as well. All used of course, from cars shown in the attached images. And yes I realize there is more to it, I was just showing some of the more expensive parts.

It really doesn't seem to cost quite as much as it used to a few years ago. And with no labor costs, it may even be doable. I have a few more questions though if you all will humor me:

When you say 4WD spindles... are these the front hubs you are talking about? or is this a different part?

And the 4WD controller...are we talking about the circle selector switch in the cab under the rear window switch? If so, that doesn't seem like too big a deal IF the wiring is already there... correct me if I am mistaken?

And does anyone know if the 4WD system is completely controlled in the ECU? Or are there more added-on electronics somewhere else that just doesn't exist in the 2WD versions?

Try not to bash me to much here guys/gals, I'm just trying to get some information

 

[Rover+Runner]

kylebacc - what you are proposing is probably not impossible, but it may not be practical as a DIY project. There is a separate computer for the 4wd system, and who knows if it will work with a RWD truck's other control systems without reprogramming (may not be 'plug and play'). If you pull off a RWD to 4x4 conversion you'll have to do a write-up for the forum. Personally, I would find a high mileage 3rd gen 4x4 that you know will work and keep both!

 

[kylebacc]

kylebacc - what you are proposing is probably not impossible, but it may not be practical as a DIY project. There is a separate computer for the 4wd system, and who knows if it will work with a RWD truck's other control systems without reprogramming (may not be 'plug and play'). If you pull off a RWD to 4x4 conversion you'll have to do a write-up for the forum. Personally, I would find a high mileage 3rd gen 4x4 that you know will work and keep both!

hmmm... so there is a separate 4WD module. You wouldn't happen to have a name for it would you? I wonder what I would have to search for in order to find it :/ and I would of course do a write up, but this is still a ways off if it were to ever happen. More than likely not before next summer.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

I see what you're trying to do now... I agree with Rover + Runner, it wouldn't be impossible but it would be huge unertaking that even with "free" vehicles may not make sense.

This site is a tremendous resource and much can be learned by comparing part#'s for ECM's, wiring harnesses etc. http://www.toyodiy.com/ Click on parts reference on the left side and go from there.

Did the 4wd one burn on the inside? Was someone ejected? It looks scary to me.





fftopic: Was one of those T4R's rolled? There's been a Toyota weak roof thread that's been around and if that thing was rolled I'd say it did well...

:cheers: