What is hanging off my Transfer Case?

Your truck has a mustang!! Should tell it to wipe a little more thoroughly.

 

I originally posted this one month into owning my truck. Now that I know a whole lot more about 1st gens I'll add a few comments:

Yes, I have the pushbutton 4wd, called the "2-4 switch" in the service manual. The electronic actuator engages the front driveshaft when you either press the 4WD button (when the stick is on 2 wheel drive HI) or when you shift the stick to 4LO.

I love my California truck. I replaced the suspension a year ago with only hand tools and a 10" breaker bar. No impact wrenches or penetrating lubes needed. Sadly, after two winter road trips out to Colorado I have some light surface rust where the frame paint is worn from age.

 

So THAT'S where Toyota put the Muffler Bearings...

 

I’m in the Toyota t.ten program working on becoming a master tech. And they put these on mainly 3rd gen 4runners and many first gen Tacoma’s that have an over specification vibration while testing in the factory. Many 4runners are just equipped with them do too it being a more family luxury suv/truck compared to the Tacoma, who’s driver are more willing to deal with a bit more vibration due to being a “truck owner”. This is straight from a master tech who’s been in the Toyota family since the late 70’s. I’ve been wanting one just for an extra smooth ride. It’ll absorb an extra unwanted harmonic vibrations

 

How Important is this and can I just remove it?

 

it helps reduce vibration so if you don't need to remove it just leave it alone

 

Weight reduction mod?

 

Take a dump before going for a drive...

 

Non of my 3 automatic 4 x 4 trucks have that. Must be for push button 4wd. Mine are all J shifts.

 

I have that same thing on my 04 DC. Mine is a J shift 4 wheel drive. So who knows!

 

It might be a trim level thing. Lack of vibes is a luxury!

 

I have a 03 double cab 4x4. Not J shift. I removed it because it got in the way of the transfer case skid. Drove around a bit and noticed no difference. The thing must weigh at least 5lbs.

 

You can relocate it like this dude if you want the extra weight back https://www.parksoffroad.com/tacomamods/skidrowskid/skidrowskid.htm