rbread80

I am looking at purchasing a 1996 T100, but the 4x4 is nonfunctional (I haven't even seen the truck in person, going this afternoon). I believe the current owner has been driving it with the 4x4 nonoperational, just in 4x2. Would this have caused damage, and will I cause further damage driving it this way until I can fix it? I am assuming if it is a seal it may leak. Is it fairly easy to lube the transfer case, and keep it topped off?
Thanks,
Brandon

Dutchbelly

If the 4X4 isn't working, odds are the damage is in the transfer case. When in 4X2 the transfer case throws out a straight 1:1 ratio, so I would doubt much damage would be caused running this way, unless as you say the transfer case is low on fluid. Not much damages those things beside intense shock or heat. If he's wrecked the transfer case, I'm assuming he really didn't go easy on the truck. Make sure you know exactly what's wrong with the truck before you buy it. There should be a drain nut on the back/bottom, and a filler nut on the side that you can check levels with. If you decide to replace all the fluids make sure your filler nut opens before you remove the drain one, for obvious reasons.

tj884Rdlx

based on the information you've provided, it seems possible that your truck could explode at any moment.
technically anything seems possible, based on your information.

the functionality of "the 4x4" is dependent on a LOT of things:

is the transfer case not engaging, is the front diff not engaging, is one of the hubs not engaging, or is the front drive line broken somewhere, etc.

you can drive the truck with the 4x4 DISENGAGED, as long as you want, like any selectable 4x4 vehicle.

why would you assume a seal is responsible for your lack of 4x4? is it leaking now?
if your transfer case is leaking, you will want to rectify that regardless of whether your 4x4 is functional, because your t-case is still a dynamic part of the drive train.

most likely your 4wd is not working because of the vacuum powered actuator at the front diff. it could be clogged or leaking.

rbread80

I have no reason to believe its a seal, just a friend mentioned its a potential problem. So if i leave 4x4 disengaged, I will probably be ok til I can fix it? The truck otherwise sounds like a good deal. It had 80,000 miles and everything else works (including a/c!).
Thanks!

Badger62811

Maybe you should walk away, because everyone knows driving a 4WD in 2WD really messes up the whole truck. In most cases, it even voids the warranty. Perhaps a 4x4 is too big a step. Have you looked into getting a Prius?

83

? Are you meaning driving a rear wheel drive 4x4 in front wheel drive? Otherwise I'm not sure I follow your logic. Everyone drives their 4wd in 2wd except when they're in 4wd...my 4wd is in 2wd probably 70% of the time. So I'm guessing I'm just misunderstanding your post? I have driven across town with the rear d-shaft off, with hubs engaged, in 4 high. Not ideal but it'll get you out of pickle...but I agree, that's not a good thing to do all over town.

As stated above, it really just depends on what's wrong. "4x4" covers a lot of things. It it's the transfer case, yes, depending on what's wrong, driving it around in 2wd could damage things further. You are using the transfer case even when you're not in 4wd. If the issue is with the front differential or front driveshaft, then no, most likely driving it around in 2wd will cause no further damage.

Just keep in mind, this could very well be a very expensive fix, so you better be getting a screaming deal on the thing. And, if it's something mechanical messed up...as mentioned above, the truck's probably been abused, and you better be ready for a lot more problems once you buy it.