2005 SR5 4wd explained (non TRD)

I was hoping someone can help me understand how the 4wd system works in my particular truck because I am only finding detailed information on the TRD versions with a separate Diff. Lock button. My truck does not have the diff. lock button and only has the 4wd dial (2H, 4H, 4L). When I put the truck in 4H, it appears to automatically lock the differentials because when making turns, the tires chirp since they are maintaining the same rotation. Is this the case or am I confusing something?

What is the difference between how my truck works than one that has the 4wd dial along with the diff. lock button? Thanks in advance for the explanation.

 

The tires chirp cause they are all connected together and trying to slip to turn. If they chirped, I'd think you was on pavement and turned which is bad for the 4wd. Your truck has open diffs f/r and a Toyota with factory locker is open f/r but when you push the button it locks the rear.

 

You are confused it seems between the TRD rear differential lock and the center differential. All Tacos are locked in the transfer case because they have no center differential. You do not use 4 wd on dry pavement and only on slippery surfaces. All you are lacking is a rear differential lock as far as mechanics are concerned.

You need to read your owner's manual carefully or get one if it is missing.

 

I guess I didn't explain my question very well. I am very aware not to use 4wd on dry pavement, but none the less, I have turned it on in rocky drives to ensure it is working from time to time. When doing so, the back tires will stutter when making a turn which lead me to believe when engaging 4wd, the differential locks, which is the basis of my thread. I have tried reading the manual and it is very vague and covers a lot of areas that my truck does not have, like the diff. lock button. So my question is: Is my SR5 4wd locking any diffs when I engage the 4wd? If it is not, then what is making the rear tires stutter when making a turn.

 

No, your SR5 does not have locking differentials.

 

The center diff is locked therefore the front tires are connected to the back. The front will have more traction due to the engine being over them so the back tires are slipping. You have an sr5 therefore open diff's unless someone installed something aftermarket

 

You have no center diffenrtial. So front to rear, wheels always turn at the same rate going to the front and rear diffentials. It remains locked. That is what you feel. The front and rear diffentials are open from side to side.