99 Triton

Should be 2 gear sticks in there if it's a GLX, not sure about the GLS(Wombat???)... One with gears 1 through 5 and the other with H2, H4 & L4. I have an '03 and a mate has a '97(I think) and the only difference is the placement of the second stick, my small stick is to the left of the main stick and his is to the right. My users manual says the only damage done by driving in H4 is increased fuel consumption and actually recommends it when towing heavy loads, albeit with a maximum speed of 80kph.

Well going from memory (haven`t had my Triton out at all in 8 months because I got a cast on my left leg )with the GLS Triton while at standstill you move the little lever next to the gearshift to 4H and 2 lights will come on near the temp gauge.Then while driving you can move the lever back to 2H at up to 100km/h...use the clutch when doing it though.

To disengage 4x4 and unlock the front diff for normal driving ,move lever to 2H and pull up and stop, switch the ignition off and then switch ignition back on.

The Pajero's, and I believe the Tritons, have a system called Super Select, enables you to select 4x4 on the move at speeds up to 100kph.
To engage, simply back off the throttle and then shift the lever forward to "4H"
This mode selects full time 4wd with the centre diff unlocked, meaning no transmission windup. Suitable for wet or slippery roads, including sealed roads.

To disengage, simply back off the throttle and shift the lever to "2H"
The two extra indicator lights will blink a few times and then deselect. Bear in mind though that the front hubs will not disengage until the vehicle is driven in reverse for a few meters.

"4HLC" or "4LLC" should only be selected off road or in very slippery conditions as this locks the centre diff and can cause transmission windup on firm surfaces.

There should be a sticker on the inside of the driver's door which explains the correct procedures for engaging your transfer case and locking/unlocking your front hubs.

I have a '97 2.8 normally aspirated diesel Triton 4X4

The 4X4 high range can be engaged whilst on the move (up to 100 kph as our friends have pointed out). Just back off the throttle until the trans is not loaded and move the small transfer gear stick into engagement. Don't attempt to put her into low range whilst moving - you've got to be at a standstill to do that.

Deselect it by throttling off and pulling the lever out of high range 4X4

My hubs are manual so I have to get out to do that!

Its not recommended that you use 4X4 low range through the transfer case if the front hubs are not engaged - too much power/torque for just 2 wheels.

You will definitely get tranny wind up in 4X4 mode if not on a slippery surface.

You've got a really great vehicle by the way!

Unbreakable(?)

I have a 99 Challenger with super select and auto transmission. The Challenger does not have 4HLc or 4LLc mentioned above ("Lc" indicating centre diff is locked) only 2H, 4H and 4L. I am not sure if the Triton is same , but if you have the "Lc" suffix you shouldn't select this option whilst of firm (sealed) surface or transmission lock may occur as you have assumed. if it does have "Lc" then should not be a problem to sleect 4H - similar to AWD and full time 4wd's like Landcruiser and Discovery (I miss the rumble of a baby V8!) with 'open' centre diff doing what it's meant to do

With the Challenger the owner's manual recommends not selecting 4wd on sealed surfaces at all unless the surface is slippery.

Shifting between 2H and 4H can be done on 'the fly' simply by pushing the stubby lever forward / back. sometimes it pays to back off
the throttle or give it a jab to help deselect 4wd. As mentioned above, changing between 4H and 4L needs to be done at standstill, and preferebly in neutral.

Good luck with the new truck and as always... ENJOY!

Dan