AWD ("MultiMode") T4R Transfer case swap?

I tried searching, so if I missed a thread (or ten), please let me know.

While I'm not convinced it is useful for my application, I'm researching the ability to swap in a 4Runner transfer case that has a center differential lock (unlocked = AWD; locked = fixed 50%/50% like the standard Taco transfer).

What benefits would you see to this swap?

One benefit I can think of is if I had a crawl box (2nd transfer case). I could crawl around in AWD until necessary to engage the center diff lock to force 50% front/rear distribution).

Best fit for 2002 Taco w/Automatic & 2-4 Select transfer
For my application, it looks like a nice swap for my current "2-4 Select" Transfer case (non-J-Stick) would be the 01-02 T4R transfer case.



I would add a center diff locking switch like it is on the 4runner to control AWD vs 4x4:



Research notes:

 

Tighter turn radius in parking lots I guess...

So the T-case you're looking at is full time awd, but has a t-case lock, or does it have a 2-4wd option, plus the center diff lock?

 

Oh, I guess I need to do more research. I don't want full time AWD, I would want what I have now (2H, 2L, 4H, 4L) PLUS a center diff to lock.

 

I don't know if that's the case, I was just asking if you knew...

I don't *think* 4runners were ever full time awd, but that phrasing does get thrown around a lot on some of the 4runner forums I read through.

 

@Empty_Lord didn't you toy with this idea?

 

Limited 4Runner had a different setup than non-limited models.

 

I think there is a guy who did that with a 2nd gen in here. Can’t recall what thread I saw that in though. I also was researching that but after putting a HC rear with swingout and a cap with a RTT I have enough weight over the rear that I get plenty of traction in 2wd when driving in the winter. Just some cinder blocks back there and good tires was a big help.

 

Uh...what?

 

I used to have a "limited" '97 5-lug.

In that it was a poverty spec and my buddy always said it was "limited in its capabilities"

 

That sounds like such a sad truck...

 

It got the job done.

(this is the guy who called it "limited" actually)


and since I found that one, here's me...

 

epic thread hijack...

 

What a dick

By the way, I just bought some King 2.5 Ext fronts to replace my Fox 2.5 fronts

 

copy cat

 

Oh yea, cause no one else has King CO's

I just figured it'd give me a chance to try out a different brand coilover since I was going to send my Fox out to get the bushing/spacer removed for extended travel. I purchased them as standard travel coilovers, and have been putting off installing my new Icon UCA's.

Priorities

 

you should do a 4x4 convert while you're at it.

 

I have; 2 sets of manual hubs, spindles, front diff, and axles.

Almost there

Now to get back on track lol I wonder if having a drive-by-wire will affect anything at all with whatever else the OP will need. Transfer case mounts up the same?

 

01-02 t case should work fine. You would need to do the wiring. But you could have it in 2wd, 4wd or awd from my understanding.

when you shift the shifter into 4x4 it’s awd. You have to press the diff lock button to engage the center diff to lock it 50/50 for true 4x4.
This is actually an option I’m considering in my 01

 

99-00 Limited 3rd Gen T4Rs had the multimatic transfer case as did all 01-02. Basically you could have 2wd, 4wd hi/low with the center diff unlocked (aka awd), or 4wd hi/low with the center diff locked (true 4wd with power sent 50/50 to front and rear)

Nice to have in snowy weather because you can leave in 4HI with the center diff unlocked instead of having to take it in and out of 4wd like in our trucks.

Would be interesting to see someone do this swap, don't know if anyone has yet.

 

I’m sure it’s been done. But likely not documented. Being the transfer case is still a manual lever, wiring should be fairly straight forward.