Locking rear differential question

When the rear locker is active should the red indicator on the dash be flashing or solid ? The truck I tested was flashing red.

Also when engaged I took some tight turns in a parking lot and didn't feel any binding etc...

I'm looking to buy a 2008 TRD off Road truck and just want to be sure everything works

Thanks

 

The light will flash until the locker is completely engaged, i wouldnt recommend driving while its flashing. Once its completely engaged the light will be solid red.

 

Yup

 

Ok makes sense. I'll keep it from moving until it is solid red. How long does it usually take?

 

it should activate within a few feet if not right away...when you first start to use it, it can be stubborn, but after a few uses it seems to activate much quicker

 

If you want to test it, get it into 4low (must be in neutral to engage). Put the truck back in drive and press the diff lock button. Turn the wheel slightly and roll slowly forward about 5 feet or so.

The should allow the diff to line up and lock. When it happens the light will go solid.

If you are doing this on pavement don't drive any farther forward or backward. Put the truck back in neutral, unlock the diff, and take it out of 4wd.

 

^What he said. If you listen carefully I usually hear a click when it locks in. Usually I have to drive forward and turn a little, but I'm getting used to it on my new truck. Find a gravel lot if you can.

 

Were you in 4LO? If you didn't experience binding doing tight turns on pavement it sounds like you were in 2WD...that also explains why the locker light was just flashing. By the way...never drive in 4WD on pavement (see links in my signature below)

 

Good info. I'll test it on a forgiving surface. So the locker works in 4low and 2 wheel drive also correct?

 

That was easy!

Sadly, in reality... it can take multiple tries to get it to lock... Maybe another reason I like the A-TRAC better?