aptonelli

This is my first post. I've had my '04 4Runner for about 2.5 years. Shortly after I bought it, I discovered the 4wd light was blinking and I couldn't get out of 2wd and into 4h or 4l, even with all the tricks.

Long story short, my mechanic couldn't figure out what was wrong with it so they brought it to the dealer. Toyota said I needed a new actuator and the total cost of parts plus labor would run me upwards of $2000!

So my question is: should I just buy a used T-case and have a mechanic replace my old one? Do I need the whole T-Case? I've see parts retailers online quoting used t-cases for around $500+. They also have "transfer case electric motors" for cheaper. Is the t-case electric motor the same thing as the actuator? How much would it cost to have a mechanic put in a t-case that I purchase? What about the "electric motor?"

jlarew

I ran into the same problem. It is most likely the actuator located in the front diff. The motor is most likely stuck that slides a collor onto a splined shaft. There is a how-to on this forum somewhere. Once you get the actuator off, open it up and turn the motor with a 12v supply. It should loosen up. Reinstall and you'll be all set.