Auto lsd in 4wd bypass?

Hi,

I just joined this forum because I bought a 2008 Sequoia back in December. I really like it, great vehicle so far. But the lack of factory off road traction options sorta bug me.

I noticed that it has the rear "auto limited slip differential", that uses the brakes to simulate traction.

I also noticed that it's only available in 2wd (WTF is the point then?)

Wouldn't this auto LSD system be a great addition to the center differential being locked, in 4wd?

Is there a way to keep the auto LSD system on, in 4wd?

 

My understanding from previous research is in 4x4 it basically automatically switches to the 4 wheel equivalent of Auto LSD, which may be referred to as A-trac. It does the same thing auto LSD does but for all 4 wheels. I think.

 

That's what I think happens when you have the center differential unlocked, but the auto LSD and traction control all turn off as soon as you lock the center differential.

I know guys have used their parking brakes on the rear axle to equalize the traction for years, I was hoping that someone else had been down this road, and knew of a simple wiring harness hack to get us closer to 3wd, with the auto LSD system engaged in 4h and 4L, with the transfer case diff locked.

 

It sucks that we can't get into auto LSD with a separate button, like an FJ.

How bad is the power cut with A-Trac on? Is the fullsize A-Trac comparable to the 4runner? The 4runners capabilities with A-Trac look impressive.

Sorry, new to the fullsize Toyota world, didn't realize they were this advanced!

 

The auto lsd is just A-trac in 2wd. I have not driven the 4th or 5th generation 4runner but I do have a 3rd Gen. The A-trac is in my experience exactly the same. It is quite capable as well. The only time that the power cut has bothered me is when I'm in the sand dunes or deep mud. The solution is just one button push whether you are in 4x4 low or high. A-trac works best are about 1800 rpm. It is a pretty amazing system.

 

So it just uses the abs system to hit individual brake calipers?

 

Correct, It is the precursor to the crawl control features that came later.

 

Very interesting!

So performance pads and rotors might help with off road traction?

 

Unfortunately it wouldn't help. You would need a mechanical torsion style LSD or a locker. To maximize traction on the Sequoia first you would hit the auto lsd button. If that didn't work hit the 4x4 button. Need more? lock the center differential. Then a single button push. More? At that point you would probably be in 4 low, if you need more you need to do a single button push. Let er rip. Don't break anything.

 

Are there torsen style lsd's available for sequoia's?

 

Not that I am aware of. You have independent rear suspension, not a solid rear axle. I'm not sure what kind of off-roading you are doing but you will run out of ground clearance before you run out of traction aids.

 

Coming into some extra money over the summer, going to get a lift on it, and some bigger tires. I did notice that it's low, I can't crawl under it.

 

I've wheeled quite a few Toyotas. Recently a new Tacoma on 33 inch tires with all the crawl controls, downhill assist and a locking rear diff. I didn't use them at all.. Experience, A-trac and 4low will take you places that you are probably not mentally prepared to drive. Get a quality lift, wheels, tires, some traction boards and a way to air down and air up your tires. Save your money for gas to travel all the cool places you can imagine going. my 2 cents..

 

Ok, is an LC 200 that much better off road? I really like the look of them, I was on the fence about modding the Sequoia vs just getting an LC, and putting good tires on it.

 

Yes, It is way better offroad. Enough to switch vehicles? That's up to you.