4Runner 4X4 Stages of use (New Owner Tips)

@Cowboy59 posted the video linked below back on November 25, 2020 and I found it very helpful since my previous 4 wheelers offered nothing close to what's offered on our 4Runners. After watching it I decide to assemble a cheat sheet/checklist with additional notes. Hope others find this useful too.

https://www.4runners.com/threads/atrac-vs-mts.16990/#post-196412

4Runner 4X4 Stages of use.

(1) 2H
(2) 2 H to 4H (shift from 2H to 4H when at or below 50 MPH)
(3) 4L (Full Stop) Transmission in Neutral - then push transfer case shifter hard right - then execute a *fast solid shift into 4L(*this should avoid any grinding).
Note: Traction control is automatically tuned off when 4L is engaged.
Note: 4L speed shouldn’t exceed 20 to 25 MPH max.
(4) 4L + Locked diff provides 50/50 power split across the rear end(controls wheel spin). Locking the diff automatically turns off ABS.
(5) 4L + A-trac uses brakes to modulate traction(can overheat brakes) use wisely.
(6) 4L + Locked diff + A-trac
Note: A-Trac will automatically shut off above 4+MPH)
(7) 4L + A-Trac + Crawl control (Loud Clinks + Bangs + clunks normal - lessens as control knob is turned to higher setting.
(8) 4L + Multi-Terrain Select = A-Trac sensitivity Changes Throttle Response.
a) Mud - Sand - Dirt - (*can be used in both 4L & 4H)
b) Loose Rock - 4L only
c) Mogul - 4L only
d) Rock - 4L only
Note on #8
*MTS(multi terrain select) can be used in 4L or 4H when Mud - Sand or Dirt is selected.

Note:
You can engage the rear locker and/or A-trac while using a MTS(multi terrain select) feature.
(A) Terrain selection adjusts throttle response.
(B) A-trac adjusts how traction is delivered.
(C) MTS (multi terrain select) turns off when you go into crawl control because at that point the truck is in total control. Since MTS adjusts the input from the throttle, and you do not use the throttle in Crawl control, terrain selection is no longer needed.

Note:
Mud/dirt selection is great for slippery snow. It reduces your throttle response so hitting the gas won't send you sliding. That said, if it is slippery enough to need multi-terrain selection - reduce your speed too.

Q & A
(Q)What would you recommend for sand dunes besides 4-lo?
(A) I would go with 4 low, then when you have trouble getting over dunes go with A-Trac. If you find that too much power is cut with A-Trac then the rear locker might be a better choice. If you get stuck, use crawl control to dig out.



#If I missed or misrepresented something please let me know and I will correct it.

 

You can turn A-trac, collision and ABS by holding done the A-trac button. I use it when in 2wd and slick ground. I skimmed what you wrote and apologies if this is a redundancy.

Edit: this was actually shown to me yesterday.

 

Great post from my buddy Moon Landing. I created a cheat sheet awhile back and printed it out to keep in the 4R. Below is a link to the pdf file I created. Feel free to download and print your own cheat sheet.