2001 4Runner 4wd (Engage / Disengage)

[StarGazer]

What is the proper way to engage and disengage the 4wd system. I have checked the operators manual, which oddly enough does not mention it. Weird

I suspect you would put in Neutral then push the button on the 4wd L/H shifter. When disengaging the system while driving I had heard a clunk. This that normal? Or should you bring the vehicle to a stop then push the button which seems to make sense.

HELP!!

 

[Plannerman]

Every 4wd I've had was shift on the fly from 2H to 4H meaning you could shift into 4wd while in drive. For 4Lo I've always had to stop, shift into neutral, then shift into 4lo.


Sent via fat thumb

 

[Mountainhound]

Should be instructions on visor. But to put into 4 high just pull lever up to about 40mph same for going back into 2 high. Low is like no more than say 5mph.

 

[tanglefoot]

You can shift from 2-hi to 4-hi and back at any speed (and yes, a clunk is normal). Just press the button on the transfer case shifter to go between 2-hi and 4-hi. You don't need to push in the clutch or shift into neutral.

To shift into or out of 4-Low, it's best to be stopped although it can be done at a slow roll (5 mph or less). Then you want to push in the clutch or shift into Neutral and move the transfer case shifter to the 4-L position. Same thing for shifting out of 4-L.

The '01, I'm pretty sure, normally has an open center differential so pressing the 4wd button puts you in full-time 4wd that is suitable for use on pavement, in the rain, in patchy snow conditions, etc. For true part-time 4wd with extra traction in tricky conditions (not for use on pavement), you should see a button on the dash to the left of the steering wheel by the dash dimmer switch with a symbol that looks like a little like a sideways "H". That's your center differential lock switch. Pressing it when in 4-H or 4-L locks the front and rear drive shafts together and gives you better traction in loose, sticky, difficult situations. You'll also notice that when in a tight turn with the center differential locked, the front and rear wheels will fight each other and you'll feel some tire slip and shuffling--this is normal. You can unlock the center differential for smoother, tight turns in 4wd.

 

[StarGazer]

Thank you. I thought I broke something when I heard that "clunk".

 

[p nut]

You can shift from 2-hi to 4-hi and back at any speed (and yes, a clunk is normal).

In the owner's manual, it states that shifting from 2HI to 4HI should be done at 60mph or below. However, you can shift from 4HI to 2HI at ANY speed.