Questions and Answers

4Runner Shifting Problems Q. Help! I am having trouble with the automatic transmission in my 1992 Toyota 4Runner 4x4. I have the 3.0 engine. The trouble began with the truck shifting in and out of OD at about 60 mph. No other trouble at that time, had a checkup and was told that everything was fine.

Then, the truck began shifting late into second gear, but only when the engine was cold. Once warm, everything was fine. Also, the OD light would sometimes flash off and on. Two mechanics couldn't diagnose the problem.

Now, when driving around town, the truck doesn't want to downshift when I stop. After stopping, the truck stays in third gear until I manually shift into L. Also, the OD light flashes off and on more than ever. Everything works fine as long as I shift manually from L to 2 to D as I drive. To me, this suggests that a component is to blame, not the transmission itself.

I took it to the Toyota dealership. All they did is a flush and fill, and then tell me they wanted $5,000 for a whole new tranny. They didn't even put the truck on the diagnostic machine! I don't trust them, now. The Transmission shop is stumped. (I'm from a fairly small town.)

I have heard that other Toyota 4x4 owners have had exactly these same problems, but can't seem to find anyone who will tell me what my solution may be. I would appreciate any input you can give.

Thanks.

A. With the OD light flashing, there should be codes stored in the computer. Let's see if we can pull them out.

• Turn ignition switch and O/D switch to ON.

• Do not start the engine.

HINT: Warning and diagnostic codes can be read only when the overdrive switch is ON. If OFF, the overdrive OFF light will light continuously and will not blink.

Jumper Installation

• Using a jumper wire, connect terminals TE1 and E1 of the check connector.

• Read the diagnostic code as indicated by the number of times the O/D OFF light flashes.

• If the system is operating normally, the light will flash 2 times per second.

Check Connector Location

• In the event of a malfunction, the light will flash 1 time per second. The number of blinks will equal the first number and, after 1.5 seconds pause, the second number of the two digit diagnostic code. If there are two or more codes, there will be a 2.5 seconds pause between each. Indication will begin from the smaller value and continue to the larger

If you can't get any codes out of it, then the PCM is probably bad.If you get any codes let me know and we can go from there.

Another possibility is the check balls in the valve body of the transmission were made from rubber. After time they wore down to the point were the valve body would eat them up and spit them out, causing all kinds of shifting problems.