Heat rising up around gear shift into cab

Is it normal for a Tacoma 4WD 5 speed to have heat rising up through the console, warming your right knee as you drive? The temp was near 80 today, and I never noticed the heat before. The plastic ring around the gear shift levers was fairly warm, and it almost felt as though the floor heat was on. Thanks in advance, Jim

 

Its unusual, I'd say. How are your fluid levels? Do you have a transmission cooler and is your rad fan working? If thermostatically controlled, is it coming on too late? When did you replace your transmission filter last? Were you hauling any weight before this experience? You have to consider may factors to clue in.

 

No HD radiator or oil cooler, no towing. All of the fluids were replaced in November, about 4000 miles ago. The oil was changed again two weeks ago. The Rack and Pinion was replaced monday, and it will go back in the shop tomorrow for replacing the ball joints. I'll get them to check it out, but was just wondering if this heat was normal. This is a 5 speed, so there is no transmission filter that I am aware of. This is a recent change. Thanks, Jim

 

check your tranfercase fluid immeadiatly......

 

It depends only how long of a drive mine gets so hot my foot gets warm .

Gear shift gets very warm to the touch

I only notice it in the summer after a few hours