Driving in 4-Low without locking hubs- any harm?

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Apr 15, 2008
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Hi, I need to call on my FJ60 to tow a pretty heavy(6000lb) trailer for a relatively short distance, about 20 miles. Would I be doing any harm leaving it in 4 low and just not locking the hubs? What's the top speed I'd be able to do in low range? Thanks. -Ted
 
A lot of us have done the 2 lo mod, which allows you to run in low range, but 2 wheel drive instead of 4 wheel drive. Works fine. Easy mod.

Doing what you ask w/out the 2L mod, means the front diff and axles are turning, just not engaged with the front wheels. I don't think this does any harm, but am not 100% positive.

Top speed in low range, 4th gear is ~25 mph.

I've towed 6000 lbs with my 60, and only used low range for starting on hills. Once I was on the flat, I used high range and it was fine.

Make sure your tires are at max pressure, and that your brakes are good.
 
Yeah... I know'd that they'd be turning but can't think of a reason it'd matter. Don't think there would be a cooling issue. How did you use it to start on hills? I was under the impression that you couldn't shift the transfer case once you were moving... Can you?

It's very flat here, though, so I can probably stick with 2-High.
 
Really sorry about the posts... I'm on my phone's browser and it freaked out.
 
Yeah... How did you use it to start on hills? I was under the impression that you couldn't shift the transfer case once you were moving... te]

I used low range to start on the hill, then drove in low until the road flattened out. Stopped, shifted to high, and continued.

If you live in a flat area, you'll be fine in high range. Speed is your enemy with a heavy load like that.
 

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