Shouldn’t I be able to use 4x4 on the fly?

I have a limited Tundra with 4x4 push button. It engages on the fly just fine but will flash when I try to take it out. I have to stop and put it in reverse to disengage. It was also pulling so hard my arm was getting sore.

any suggestions would be Appreciated.

 

Yes you should, assuming the system is working 100%. Possibly that the axle disconnect is crudded up and the actuator doesn't have enough power to overcome it while it's under strain.

You can also try putting the transmission in neutral while moving forward to see if they works instead of reversing.

 

Thanks for the brilliant response!

 

I found that it was easier to disengage 4x4 on the fly when I let off the gas.
May be different with an auto compared to my manual trans. Neutral is a good idea but may be a bit cumbersome following all those steps all of the time. Especially if you want to get out of 4x4 when you’re traveling down the highway.

 

Not sure how often Sparkii has had the truck and how often the 4x4 has been exercised, but maybe its a matter of working out the cobwebs with periodic use.

Good suggestions from everyone so far.

 

I engage mine for afew minutes every time it rains. Just try not to use it on sharp turns when on pavement.

 

I do the same thing. Let off the throttle when engaging/disengaging and it seems to help a lot. Before under load, it would go in but would clunk. Now it goes in with no noises. I don't make it a habit to run 4x4 above 50mph either.

 

One thing I’d recommend checking is that all 4 tires are the same brand / model, size, load rating, tread depth and that tire pressures are correct.