3spd Tcase shift problems - suggestions?

[MOfj40]

I have the 3speed case with dash linkage low range. Truck sat for about 8 weeks until I drove it to my new house about a week ago (175 miles mostly highway). I put it in low range to maneuver it into it's parking spot (steep uphill and curb) since 1hi is gutless. It shifted ok, but had some resistance. In the past it has always been a smooth transition.

I went out today to drive it and tried to shift back to hi. It went about 1/4 from lo (just enough to get into Neutral) and stopped. I can't get it back to lo or forward to hi. Truck is sitting relatively level, transmission in neutral, no strain on driveline. I've PB Blaster'd the linkages from the firewall to the t-case - no change. I took the linkage apart where it exits the firewall and have free movement from the shift lever through the firewall, so the problem is definitely at the case. I've tried tapping on the linkage at the case (along passenger side where it turns 90 degrees towards the top of the case) with a hammer - no motion either direction.

I really need the truck back on the road before Friday. My wrench time for the near future will consist of darkness and probably rain, so I'm looking for some suggestions or tips before I really tear into this. Anything that might save me pulling the tunnel, or advice on what to look for once I get it opened up.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[shelfboy1]

you said you had it low 4x4 unlock hub or jack up a tire and see if it unwinds a little then try good luck

 

[Straydog]

Did you check the pivot on the motor mount? Mine used to stick there because the shaft was worn and it would bind against the mount.

 

[MOfj40]

I actually had it in 2lo - hubs unlocked, front shaft not engaged. Trying to shift back to 2hi.

I guess I'll try taking the linkage apart at the last joint before the case & see if it will move.

It'll be after midnight before I get back to it, so any additional suggestions are welcome.

 

[Poser]

Remove the linkage piece where it attaches to the transfer case and shift it manually. I really doubt that something internal to the transfer case is the issue. It is likely just corroded or stubborn shift linkage.

 

[65swb45]

I just had one in the shop recently where the detent in the side of the dash shifter [the one that pulls on the 4wd cable] had slipped past the cable on its way to lo range.

It had similar symptoms.

Hth

Mark A.

 

[MOfj40]

After letting the PB Blaster soak in while I was at work, I was able to free it up by rocking the shift lever- I think it was the linkage at the motor mount. Thanks for all the suggestions.

Ran it around town to test it out, and my wipers quit on me. It never ends.....

 

[LT]

Twin stick man, direct linkage to the shifter assembly makes it a world of difference for shifting.

 

[MOfj40]

Twin stick definitely has fewer potential problems, but I really like the linkage/vac case. It adds to the uniqueness of the vehicle. A little preventative maintenance on my part would have avoided the issue altogether.

 

[lexi4darin]

Twin stick definitely has fewer potential problems, but I really like the linkage/vac case. It adds to the uniqueness of the vehicle. A little preventative maintenance on my part would have avoided the issue altogether.

In fact, Vac Xfer case, pull lever hi/lo, 3 on the tree, amb rear doors, utilitarian.

It doesn't just add to the character of the Land Cruiser, it is the character of the FJ40.

 

[cjgoode]

2x on the character. dash linkage and vacuum shift with 3 on the tree is the way to stay. It separates these vehicles from the rest. Plus it is so nice to have no shifters on the floor.

 

[FF LC FREAK]

In fact, Vac Xfer case, pull lever hi/lo, 3 on the tree, amb rear doors, utilitarian.

It doesn't just add to the character of the Land Cruiser, it is the character of the FJ40.

Nice 4 and a half year thread revival! Hopefully, the OP has this problem fixed by now.

 

[MOfj40]

Nice 4 and a half year thread revival! Hopefully, the OP has this problem fixed by now.

Call this thread Lazarus...Fixed, enjoyed the 40 some more, then sold the 40 (2 years ago)

Definitely miss it but it was a Franken40 basketcase. Since replaced it with a 92 FJ80 which is a bit more practical with kiddos and their associated "stuff". Still miss it though. One of these days.....

Lexi4darin, you're right. There are very few vehicles in existence with the "character" type items included in a FJ40.