How often do you put it in 4wd?

Hey I was wondering how often do you guys put the selector switch in 4hi, 4lo just to keep the electric actuator loose and gears warm?

my toyota tech told me to do this once a month.

 

As often as I can! Lol
But generally only when I remember too!

 

Perv hahah true.

 

Saw this thread title to see what was it about, leaving disappointed

 

Well you did it

 

Ha Haaaa! I see what you did there!

 

As often as you want

 

I heard from a lady at work that to keep it loose and warm, you should start in lo for a few minutes then switch to hi. I don’t know if she’s on the forum though.

 

I keep meaning to shift to 4Hi for my commute to and from work once a month (straight 5 mile drive one way) but so far I haven't been very successful at remembering.

 

Techs right, this info is also in the owner's manual.

That said, I do it probably once or twice a week just because and my route to work is half dirt so why not.

 

Well thank you forum. Yet again. I swear I learn something new every time I am on here

 

Lol

I always remember when I'm pulling in the driveway! Dammit!

 

I’m usually in a situation at least once a month where I’m forced to use it.

Wish she’d need it more often.

 

Errday!

 

I always had the impression that it was OK to engage 4wd high on paved roads as long as it was straight, especially at the speeds they allow you to do so. After reading the manual more closely, they say not to do this. Not sure how Toyota expects people who don't have access to dirt roads to exercise and lubricate the diff , pretty confusing to say the least.

 

I try once a month but keep forgetting, and when I remember, I switch it to 4 hi on a straight road for a couple miles.

 

Dont quote me but I think the owners manual says a minimum of 8 miles once a month

 

Same...I was always under the impression that you could put it in 4wd on paved roads as long as it was straight. I will need to double check the manual now...

 

This is true also on paved roads with decreased traction such as heavy rain or snow/ Ice

 

What’s it gonna hurt to go in a straight line? I could understand if you were turning sharply on pavement.

 

10 miles not 8.

 

I try to use it once or twice a month.

 

I did it today while driving in a straight line and going about 30 MPH. Guess I'll have to do it more often. Better yet, I'll get my owners manual and read it (again).

 

Do it in the rain

 

AS with the AC compressor it helps to keep everything lubricated including the seals. I have lots of dirt and gravel roads where I live so it is not a problem to run it in 4WD.