I just picked up a 87 4 runner with manual transmission and 4 cylinder engine. The 4wd shifter was stuck and wouldnt go into any gear, and the vehicle was in 2wd. I disassembled it thinking it was a bushing or a spring(the one down in the transfer case) missing or broken based on internet research and when I took it apart it had neither. While trying to put it back together so I could go order parts, I think, pretty sure, I accidentally switched the position of one of the shifting links inside. After reinstalling the shifter, everything works perfect. My question is, are there some years without the bushings and springs, or are they unnecessary? If they are unnecessary, why are they there? Can I ride it like this in 4wd and be okay?

 

If it's in 4HI, you can drive it, but it really bad for the front end if the hubs are locked in pavement. As long as the hubs aren't locked, and you're certain of that, I can't see any reason why you can't drive it that way, temporarily. If it's stuck in 4LO, you won't get going very fast. Like something around 25 or 30, at most, in 5th gear. Be cautious!
Have you tried shifting it back into 2HI? I would work on getting the transfer case repaired, though. These trucks aren't designed as "full-time 4WD". Ge a copy of the FSM, even a PDF download, and get to work!




Just my opinion, though.
This any help?
Pat☺

 

Thanks for your reply and drawing, it wasnt stuck in 4wd, the shifter was just stuck in the wrong position, I think and I fixed that. I was wondering if there is supposed to be a hard plastic bushing down under the 4wd shifter? I don't see one on this diagram, but they definitely sell them for this year truck, does it need that bushing?

 

The R1A transfer case used in your 1987 'Runner 22r application does not have a shifter bushing. The shifter ball rests directly on the metal radius machined into the shift lever retainer.

There is, of course, a plastic or hard rubber bushing in your w56 transmission shifter.

I think that the chain drive cases used in 6 cylinder applications might use a plastic bushing, but that does not apply to you.