Fingers

I have a 1998 Toyota Hilux Surf SSRG (same as a '99 4runner Limited in the US). Mods to this point are TRD supercharger, which has thankfully has not resulted in any pinging or fuel starvation issues as yet.
My questions to the board are as follows; with the full-time 4wd system (multi-mode) in 4H (unlocked center differential) is there a MINIMUM torque split to either axle (such as with the 4th Gen 4runner), in other words, if the diffentials are all completely open it seems to me that if one wheel lost traction that wheel would recieve 100% of the torque thus making 4H essentially worthless as a traction improving mechanism.
Perhaps someone has information as to whether or not the transfer case/center differential on the 3rd Gen has a limited slip function so that regardless of traction loss at the front or rear axle some torque will still be sent to the opposite axle. I'd really like to know how the system works.
Another thing I noticed on my ride is that the rear differential has a sticker on it that reads "LSD FLUID ONLY", this tells me that it is possibly a LSD unit even though I have been under the impression this was not available in the 3rd Gen (I do not have the optional locking diff) perhaps this was a foreign only option, does anyone have info on the nature of any LSD Toyota made for this model?

smiljko

Lift the rear end and turn one wheel- if the opposite wheel rotates in the same direction you have LSD-if it rotates in the opposite direction -it is an open diff.I had LSD in my previous vehicle Daihatsu Rocky and it wasn't too much help.

Morr

The 3rd Gen Surf versions all have a lockable open centre diff, ie no torque bias or LSD so you're correct in assuming that in 4wd with the diff unlocked, complete loss of traction on one wheel could leave you with total traction loss.

The rear axle LSD was indeed fitted to some of 3rd Gen surfs, particularly in range topping SSR-G form (not all tho, I don't have an LSD).
These Toyotas lsd's do not however have a good reputation for longevity, the internal friction/clutch plates apparantly wear out quickly and are difficult to replace and set-up correctly. I have heard it said the they can wear out in as little as 60,000Kms, leaving you with a normal open diff.

smiljko

It is not a big loss.

Fingers

Thanks for the info!