I've got a '95 T-100 SR5 with auto. It has one of those shift on the fly 4wd shifters on the floor. For awhile now it has refused to shift in to 4wd. I managed to get the accuator on the front axle to go into 4wd by bypassing the vsv and simply manipulating the vacuum hoses (taking it off one port and putting it on the other). It works fine when I do that. However, it's a pain to have to go under the hood every time I want to go into 4wd.
But it works and I am thankful for that. My question is: Is there any long term problem with this set up? I have a hunch I have some vacuum solenoid switch problem but can't find any replacements at a reasonable price.
I suppose I could have a vacuum hose problem, but there seems to be plenty of vacuum with this set up.

 

if it is auto try shifting it into neutral then going into 4

 

I don't know if you are going to hurt anything, but would like to say nice job finding a simple (if maybe temporary) fix....

 

Here is a troubleshooting guide:
- http://toyota.off-road.com/toyota/ar....jsp?id=399612

And a how to on defeating the ADD system to keep it locked in all the time:
- http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/add/

And if you do that, add some manual hubs and call it good:
- http://www.off-road.com/offroad/arti....jsp?id=399668

Leaving things locked up with the drive flanges in place will cause some added wear and tear on the front CV axles and boots.

 

When I reverse the vacuum hose to the other port. It must unlock the front axle. I can't put it into 4wd when the hose is in this configuration. Since I do a lot more 2wd for economy's sake, I keep it in this position most of the time.
If I want to put it into 4wd, I reverse the hose configuration. This way, I can easily put it in or take it out of 4wd but I don't think the front axle is locked. In my mind, when I am in this 2wd I shouldn't be putting any extra wear on the CV axles. What do you think?
It only take a few seconds to make this hose switch. I'm thinking of leaving it this way, as long as I am not hurting any thing and it's easy enough to get to my 4wd.