Diff lock question (1 Viewer)

[nosfanatic2006]

Hey all, I'm looking at a 2009 4runner Trail Edition. I had it checked out by an independent shop and they said the locker wasn't engaging. When I test drove the 4runner and tried the diff lock light came on solid (wondering if the shop didn't know how to properly activate it) so I was wondering if it's possible for the light to come on solid but the locker not be engaged?

Trying to move forward on this truck asap and I'm at work and only have a couple minutes otherwise I would have spent more time researching on my own instead of wasting your guys time haha

 

[CarolinaGX]

Perhaps they didn't put it in 4Low when engaging it?

 

[nosfanatic2006]

Perhaps they didn't put it in 4Low when engaging it?

That was one of my thoughts. I've heard sometimes you need to drive forward and backward or even an S turn to get it engaged. I've read a little bit about them in the Tacoma's (I previously had a 2013 regular cab 4x4 and a 2004 extended cab 4x4) but have zero personal experience and can't seem to remember what I have read

 

[z00t3ch]

Don't quote me on this, but the light (on my GX anyway) flashes until the locker successfully engages, then goes solid...so if it fails to go solid that would be an indication of failure...if it goes solid for you I *imagine* that's a good sign it's working just fine...I know when it's really cold out mine can take up to half a minute or more to engage, while it only takes a couple seconds when hot.

 

[ebbs15]

Don't quote me on this, but the light (on my GX anyway) flashes until the locker successfully engages, then goes solid...so if it fails to go solid that would be an indication of failure...if it goes solid for you I *imagine* that's a good sign it's working just fine...I know when it's really cold out mine can take up to half a minute or more to engage, while it only takes a couple seconds when hot.

I think this is true... Also you should be able to hear it... at least you could on my 99 Tacoma. just have someone kneel near the truck and listen as you idle forward and lock it.

 

[Jstawgn]

Need to be in 4low and its pretty common for the motor to seize due to no use. Aisin have brand new replacement but it cost about $300-400

AISIN SAT-008 OE Replacement Differential Lock Actuator Amazon product ASIN B076BZJRRJ

 

[nosfanatic2006]

Thanks everyone for the responses. Good to know a new actuator isn't TOO horrible. I'll instruct the salesman while I hang out by the diff and see what I can hear. And hey, if it doesn't lock, that's more negotiation points right? Lol

 

[ebbs15]

I don't know if they're the same... but here's a walk through on rebuilding a Tacoma one

E-locker actuator rebuild

My front Elocker hasn't been working. This is what I found. Here are all of the components of the Elocker actuator, after cleaning. Start by installing the springs and brushes. I used small tie straps to hold the brushes in. Armature installed. There is a small disc that goes into the...

www.pirate4x4.com

 

[CarolinaGX]

I would have the sales person push the button so you can listen.

 

[DSRTRDR]

I would test on dirt whether there is indeed engagement - I wouldn't trust a light alone to tell me about mechanical issues with the truck