2010 4runner part time 4 wheel drive question

[tim.powerbook]

So I have a new 2010 4runner with part time 4 wheel drive. It says in the manual to drive 10 miles a month in 4 wheel drive. It doesn't say anything about dry pavement, but from what I've read online, driving in 4H on dry pavement will tear it up. Is this true for the new 4runner?

[scarney1988]

Do not engage 4 wheel drive on pavement. Try to find some type of off road area... (Dirt road, field, unpaved stone parking lot, etc...). Much better and will prevent anything from getting stuck internally.

good luck
Sean
Toyota Tech

[Yazon]

Any explanation for this procedure? I've never heard of such requirements before and wonder why this is the case. I definitely have long stretches of time when 4WD would not be engaged ( spring-fall).

I don't have 4runner right now, but was thinking about getting one in the future.

[tommytuttle]

probably suggested to keep the shafts all lubed up. I had an 81 with a seized front driveshaft from a lack of grease, too much dirt and not engaging it enough.

[tim.powerbook]

so not all 4x4s say this in the manual? i'm still loving the 4runner, and have used the 4 wheel drive, but not 10 miles a month though

[xxJDxx]

It should be fine to use on pavement so long as you only use it on a straight stretch of road. You just cant turn when in 4x4 on a paved surface...

[LTD]

Originally Posted by xxJDxx

It should be fine to use on pavement so long as you only use it on a straight stretch of road. You just cant turn when in 4x4 on a paved surface...

I agree wouldn't drive across country like that but these rigs have much tighter tollerances than the old don't drive on pavemeant period or you'll lock up and break things days. As long as you don't have different sized tires on the front and rear or a locker up front (won't want to turn) it shouldn't do any harm. You still wouldn't want to crank the wheel one way or the other but everyday driving would be fine just don't parallel park or pull a U-turn while engaged.