1998 4Runner with locking differential
I am attempting to remove the rear differential carrier in order to rebuild (the howling has finally gotten the best of me)
First off it seems that the actuator is fried. When I push the button on the dash the light blinks???
I have the right axle off but cannot get the rest of the carrier out...something is stuck bad. Perhaps the shift fork?
I can hear the actuator motor turning when powered however nothing happens!! Any ideas on how to get the carrier out?
Thanks,
Mike

 

You need both of the axles out. Pull the actuator and move the shift fork over into the lock position with a screwdriver.

 

Have you tried driving in tight circles for a few minutes with the diff lock on? I've read and heard about this working when the actuators are being sticky.

 

really simple fix, you need to pull both axles out.

 

you can also download the FSM from the link in my signature.

When pulling the rear third be sure to unhook the E Brake cables and your brake lines.
Some people will just pull the axles out far enough to get the carrier out and let the axles rest on the axle seals...if I do that I end up doing a rear axle seal later on...

 

I have both axles completely out and the fork does not want to budge... any ideas on how to get the actuator out?

 

not to thread jack but I have the same issue with out the locker...just an open diff. both axles completly out. I can pry at it and the bottom will move (1/8") but not the top. It's is acting as if it is welded on. Any tips?

 

whoa... just checked the name out...kinda nutty but this is two different people.

 

I was able to remove mine using flat head screw drivers as wedges. Used 3 and a pry bar.