Is the action of the CDL and Diff Locks related in any way to the dash light (1 Viewer)

[96LandcruiserPJ]

It has been tested and confirmed - The CDL is functional and engaging in L, but the dash lights for it and the ABS do not come on. The front and rear diffs do not engage. Is it possible that the circuit has to complete through the system that lights the dash lamps to be able to engage the front and rear diffs? Any thoughts would be enlightening.

 

[ppc]

Yes, the CDL locking indicator is electrically isolated from the activation electronics.
Front and rear locking does depend on the CDL indicator only. This is all shown in the wiring diagrams in the FSM

 

[Tools R Us]

The diffs, the light is purely an indicator, other than that, useless. The CDL, the circuit that turns on the light, also turns on the axle lockers, so if it's failed they wont work. The most common fail is the switch, sometimes it can be exercised and made to work. If/when it needs to be replaced, a backup light switch for a 2000ish, std trans, Tacoma is more cost effective, like Beck/Arnley 201-1788 or from Toyota, maybe, 84210-52050.

 

[96LandcruiserPJ]

OK - I got confirmation after Yotamasters testing...the CDL is functional and engaging in "L". Evidently all three differential detection switches are shot. So, the center diff is not sending a message to the dash, the ABS, and the rear diff, which is in turn not sending to the front diff. Problem solved.

Let's call it $635 parts and labor, including a servicing of the rear differential.