Prado - 4WD light staying on
Submitted: Monday, Dec 11, 2006 at 14:09
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RupertDog
I have noticed a small (hopefully) problem with my 97 Prado (auto). When I engage 4wd (via lever next to gearbox) it takes a while for the dashboard light to come on and confirm it is in 4wd. Also, when I disengage 4wd, it takes a while (approx 1 kms) for the light to turn off.
This happens when going from normal drive to 4wd H and back again. Yesterday, I had to stop, change thru to 4wd L, and back to normal before the light would go off. According to the Manual, I should be able to change on the move, without having to stop (although I usually stop).
Also, tried reversing a short way, but light would not go off. Eventually managed to get the light off by "jiggling" the 4wd lever whilst in Neutral (and chanting a few choice words at the lever).
Not a major problem last time as I was only in relatively firm sand, close to civilisation - hate for any problem to occur further a field!
Does the light mean I am in / out of 4wd? or does the lever mean i am in / out 4wd??
Do a have a major (read expensive) problem, or could it be a simple (known) fault?
Any help would be appreciated as I am soon to have 2 weeks off and would rather spend them exploring a few local tracks, rather than sitting in a mechanics waiting room.
Thanks in advance
RD
Reply By: Wizard1 - Monday, Dec 11, 2006 at 14:14
Monday, Dec 11, 2006 at 14:14
There is a sensor/switch on the T case lever that may need adjustment. Speak to a Toyota repairer or gearbox mechanic.
Mine takes a bit to turn off when under load, other times it is fine. I've found holding the lever to the rear (2H) will assist to get it off. Mind you the light coming on when engaging 4H is a different story.
Get an expert to check it.
AnswerID:
209762
Reply By: Member - Phil G (SA) - Monday, Dec 11, 2006 at 14:31
Monday, Dec 11, 2006 at 14:31
It sounds like you're having more trouble than usual.
While the light remains ON, the centre diff remains locked, even though the lever has been moved. Its normal for the light to stay on a short while because of a little "wind-up" in the drivetrain
Are all your tyres equal diameter - same brand/wear etc ? Other than that, it may be a mechanical issue.
AnswerID:
209766
Reply By: the nugget - Monday, Dec 11, 2006 at 17:53
Monday, Dec 11, 2006 at 17:53
Hi RD,
Agree with Phil SA, get your Prado in and checked, as it is most likely transmission wind-up. A friend of ours with a 97 Prado which he recently bought through a dealer had the similar problem light not going out as the 4wd was not disengaging, he was fortunate picking it up in time and having it repaired before real damage was done.. His was diagnosed as the cause being transmission wind-up.
TN
AnswerID:
209814