I have a 90 liteace, which is auto with 4WD. Next to the auto lever is what appears to be a manual lever. Can anyone explain to me why this is present as I get 4wd through a switch on the instrument panel. Also, how can you engage it through the lever?
Thanks! - (#1066) Eagleneil, 12 Sep 01

I think I am right in saying that this, secondary lever, is for selecting high and low, 4WD ratios and the dashboard switch is only to select 4WD if the freewheel hubs are locked first. Others more knowledgeable might explain more but, I don't think that the dashboard swith will do anything until the high or low ratio is selectd and the front hubs locked. - (#1069) John Davis, 12 Sep 01

Further to my earlier comment (which might not be absolutely correct) there is an instructional page, in the translated copy of the drivers handbook, which explains the procedure for selecting 4WD on the Townace/Masterace. If you wanted a copy of this page I could scan it and send it on. - (#1070) John Davis, 12 Sep 01

4WD is engaged by the switch on the dashboard but will only work as 4WD if the hubs on the front wheels are locked.
The secondary manual lever is for switching between high and low ratio. High ratio is adequate for most 4WD applications but if you are trying to climb a very slimy slope,low ratio might help you as it allows higher engine revs,thus greater throttle control,for lower wheel revolutions. BTW only engage low ratio with the gear shift in N or P and foot on brake.
HTH.
Pete - (#1071) Peter Bennett, 12 Sep 01

If the front hubs are locked, then pressing the switch engages drive to the front diff, hence 4x4. Once in 4x4, you can select 4lo on the transfer stick. You must be stationary in neutral to shift, though. Once in 4lo, you can't come out of 4x4, BTW.
And don't try any of this on dry tarmac- there's no centre diff, and you could bind up or break a driveshaft. - (#1073) david Miller, 13 Sep 01

Thanks for that, now I know, and I certainly won't be trying it on tarmac! - (#1078) Eagleneil, 13 Sep 01