Need some clarification on the third generation 4 wheel drive system. What model 4R has the 4 wheel drive option that operates on dry pavement (like AWD)? I thought it was only available on the Limited Edition, but my friends 2001 4R SR5 has this feature. Do all 3rd gens have this as an option?

Thanks.

 

Really? I didn't know it came with that sort of feature at all. To my understanding, normal 4wd on pavement is bad, very bad!! Bad for your tires, diff., and other components. But I didn't know 4runners came with a sort of awd option.

Are you sure??

edit: Just read a different thread and it seems the newer 4th gens have the awd mode (4hi). But I don't think 3rd gens do.

 

1999 and 2000 4WD Limiteds come standard with the multi-mode feature (AWD). Then starting in 2001 all 4WD models came with it as standard equipment. At that time, 2001, is also when all models came with vehicle skid control and traction control.

 

ok guess my 96 is too old.....haha nevermind what I said then.

 

Why would 4wd be bad on pavement? Expecially if you have auto hubs, almost everything up front is already spinning.

 

If i remember correctly, its because the front wheels need to "slip" a little bit. If they don't you get a "wheel hop" in the front end from it "binding"..

Am I correct?

 

I do get a "Wheel hop" at full turn while in 4low but that's it, that's common for anything with 4wd (well, everything I've had experience with) normal driving I wouldn't think it would make a difference.

 

Here is the description from Toyota:
For 1999, 4Runner Limited models receive a new multi-mode 4WD system as standard. The new multi-mode 4WD feature is actually a full-time all-wheel-drive system with 2WD capability. The all-wheel 4WD mode may be used in normal driving conditions on all types of roads from dry, hard surface roads, such as pavement, to wet, icy or snow-covered roads. Driving with the new multi-mode's all-wheel drive system engaged provides the driver with a more controlled, sure-footed feel to the road because power is applied evenly to all four wheels thus improving traction.
To switch from 2WD to the all-wheel 4WD mode, simply reduce the vehicle's speed to less than 62 mph and push in the One-Touch "4WD" button located on the front drive control lever knob (on the transfer case the all-wheel 4WD mode is indicated as "H4"). Returning to the 2WD mode is just as easy, depress the "4WD" button once more and the vehicle is again operating in 2WD.
I had recently asked about this option also. My wifes 98 Limited seems to have this option. The instructions on the visor say this exact thing as stated above; about being able to drive on dry roads in 4wd, pushing the button going less than 62 mph etc. Does anyone else have a late model (hers made 6/98) 98 limited with this option? I have driven on dry roads and turned sharpley in 4wd with no binding at all.

 

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/differential2.htm

 

it said the url was not valid.

 

oopss, sorry.

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/differential2.htm