J-Shifter on stock 1st Gen? Is this normal?

Different. 4r with multi-mode is fulltime awd in H with L option tcase. Tacoma is a 2wd with 4wd option and not awd.

 

Multimode has 2WD, AWD, and 4WD. With the push of a button you turn AWD on. You can literally drive like that as long as you want. Then you can shift into 4wd (don't do sharp turns). For the Tacoma the button is only 4wd.

To answer your question, they're totally different .

 

My '03 3.4 4x4 has the J shifter. I know that because it leans over to the left on my auto and if I'm not careful, I'll rest my knee on it which can't be good.

 

My 2002 3.4L TRD manual trans has the 4WD button.

 

Correct, I have an '04 with ADD and a j-shift.

 

I wonder if the ADD(4wd button) is with the TRD package only? Anyone with TRD package that has jshift can confirm?

 

I have TRD and J shift here

 

Both trd and non

 

My 2001 DC 4WD TRD had the switch/ADD and my current 2003 DC 4WD TRD has a J-shift. It was a roll-the-dice case on which truck was optioned on the vacuum front diff disconnect as far as I'm concerned.

FWIW, I like the J-shift better. Simpler and more feedback for engagement.

 

J shift or push button, 01+ are all ADD unless modified by current or PO.