The Toyota Landcruiser Owners Club

MikeN · Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 22:20 Post subject: Central Diff lock

The central diff lock on my Toyota landcruiser 3L Auto (1999) has locked on.
The yellow warning light remains on.
Have tried putting it in forward drive and rear drive to unlock the diff to no avail.
Local dealer said don't drive it but I need to get it to them so they can look at it.
My manual is in German as I only bought the car yesterday.
Is it safe to drive????

Any advice welcome.

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lucky · Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 9:46 Post subject:

No it's not if you have any corners between you and the dealer. You could seriously damage the transmission if you drive on road with the centre diff lock engaged. It will need a flatbed pickup or a front end lift and tow (unless it is an Auto).

Cheers
_________________
1999 Land Cruiser Amazon VX Active 4.2TD Auto
Gloucestershire 4x4 Response
Landcruiser-rocks

Vagabond · Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 11:40 Post subject:

If your LC is a Colorado/Prado then it may be OK - it certainly is on my UK Colorado 3.4VX - according to the user manual;
Quote:

"HL" (High Speed position, center differential locked) : Lever at "HL"
Use this for normal driving on wet, icy or snow-covered roads.

Unquote:

It goes on to say that you can shift to and from "H" (high speed) and "HL" at any vehicle speed.

I've used "HL" extensively in the winter months driving in the (Scottish) highlands and never had a problem......yet! Wink

You will damage your transmission if your front or rear diff locks are on .... Crying or Very sad

MikeN · Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:04 Post subject:

many thanks Vagabond.
The LC is at the local dealership as I write because the amber warning light will not go off.
This is my first LC and I only brought it home on Sunday!

MikeN

MikeN · Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:09 Post subject:

Thanks Lucky!

I will know better when I get my Owner's Manual in English! The one that I got with my LC is in German. My LC is automatic and LHD as we are taking it to Spain.
This site will be invaluable.
Thanks again!
MikeN

lucky · Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 16:32 Post subject:

MikeN · Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 20:12 Post subject:

Many thanks for the help and advice.
The dealer sorted the problem this afternoon. His verdict......seized solid due to lack of use by previous owner. He advised engaging it every couple of weeks to maintain condition. Cost £70 inc VAT so it could have been worse.
I have asked the vendor for a refund under his 28 day warranty. Don't hold out much hope though!!!!

MikeN