Mystery bracket on t-case??

Hey everyone
Just bought a 2001 double-cab last week. I've had several Toyota trucks before but this one has something dangling off the transfer case that has me stumped. Looks like another support or maybe a vibration dampener? What is this thing?

Thanks
Chad

 

Yep, thats a vibration dampener.

 

dafuq? that thing looks more like a nuisance than anything. my 2000 doesnt have that and I've never had a problem. remove it

 

The Germans have been doing this for decades on transmissions and rear subframes to limit driveline vibration. Consider it a luxury item.

 

I just threw a bunch of rubberized undercoating all over the place. hopefully that helps. besides. I don't mind a little roughness

 

Yep, "mass damper" or "tuned mass damper". In this case the intention is to reduce gear whine. Most Tacos didn't come with it.
They can be found here and there even on US vehicles as far back as the 60's including the "luxury" Chevy Vega.

 

Maybe this was included as part of the Limited package?

Thanks for the responses.

Chad