Transfer shift actuator is dead.

OLD INFORMATION:

Transfer Case does not need to be disassembled to install a new actuator. See:
How to change Toyota Tacoma Transfer Case Actuator
Viewing this video will not only show you how to do so easily, but how to put the Xcase into any state while you are out on the trail by just removing the xcase actuator with no need to immediately put it back on the vehicle.

OP, I would remove the actuator and try to understand its failure and repair - may just require a cleaning up.

 

^Great information. Saved video for future reference. This means if you were to replace the whole actuator, the new actuator will have to be disassembled to go on the transfer case, and the old shift shaft is re-used, still far easier than disassembling the transfer case.

 

That's my take.

However, I always like to see if I can repair something first before replacement.

Perhaps I should save a hard copy of the video to my phone so I can remember what to do on the trail. Which is where I would really need 4x4 use.

 

BTDT.
I was referring to the shift rod.
When an actuator is bought with the rod already in it.

 

the mechanic told me it needs to be replaced.

 

wow thanks so much

 

lol sorry. Different time zone

 

the follow-up then is what symptoms are you experiencing to require this specific part?

not all mechanics know what's needed, and many are far too willing to break out the Parts Cannon™ on your wallet instead of going through the appropriate diagnostic process.

 

the aisin is the exact same as OEM, right ?

 

You sure the mechanic steered you right on this? You'll be pissed if you swap it and whatever your current issue is, still exists....curious what your symptoms are. For whatever this may be worth, the front diff actuator is far more common to go bad than the transfer case actuator. The transfer case actuator is fairly reliable.

 

he’s a German mechanic I trust him.

my truck in the past would not properly switch between 2wd and 4wd and it got worse and worse and worse. Last week the back wheels locked while I was driving causing me to lose control. Then it just got stuck in 4wd and wouldn’t go into 2. Lots of times I’m driving and it feels like the hand brake is up.

 

It's either identical or compatible. Aisin is the OEM supplier (the company is ~30% owned by Toyota), so you know it's going to fit and offer reasonable reliability.

 

you do understand they need to deal with absolutes. They arnt going to tell you this "might" fix it because they will need to get paid regardless and if you dont get your issue resolved then you wont be happy. it could be a simple problem like something inside the actuator needs to be replace but it cost time for them to find the issue.

The same reason why dealerships replace the whole transmission instead of replacing parts of a transmission.

 

you know what you’re right.
He just called me and told me not to order the part. Said he wants to try to fix it first.
Hopefully it works. Buying and shipping parts from the U.S. to the Middle East is annoying.

 

Seeing where you were is what prevented me from saying...I have an extra actuator. lol

 

hahah. Hey if I need to replace it and you give me a good price I’m down. I’ll pay for shipping.

 

No: Too important/critical/expensive of a part to risk a getting a cheap knock-off or counterfeit part, no delivery, or phantom credit card charges. I don't purchase anything on the internet or otherwise anymoreover $100 that I couldn't immediately return without a hassle. Only exception I make is the Toyota Parts website. Dealership, or trusted local parts store now only. There have been cases of counterfeit "OEM" parts showing up on ["Big Box Store"] shelves. Fake boxes, hologram stickers, and tape sealing the parts boxes.

 

But this system is built to engaged on the go as long as you are under 55mph if I’m correct. Hmmmm interesting