FJ Cruiser: On and Off the Road
4WD and Traction Aids General Mechanical Off-Roading Transmission and Drivetrain
As a follow-up to yesterday’s article detailing the FJ Cruiser’s core structural components, I’d like to add a few more details, specifically addressing the drivetrain systems. The FJ Cruiser can be ordered with either a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. Both of these transmissions are extremely capable. It really comes down to personal preference as to which model you choose. I personally prefer an automatic since I’d rather focus my attention on the trail. But for many, a manual transmission is the only way to drive. Arguments as to which is better and why are similar to the IFS versus solid axle argument. There will always be pros and cons to either side. Even though I tend to lean towards the automatic model, I’ve included videos that provide more details for both transmission models below.
So that covers getting power to the rear wheels. How about the front? Though the FJ is offered in a two-wheel-drive model, the majority of the units sold are of the four-wheel-drive variety. This should come as no surprise since Toyota is marketing this vehicle as an ultimate off-roader. To accommodate this requirement, Toyota incorporated a transfer case with a 2.56:1 gear ratio in low gear. But that’s not all. To further assist FJ Cruiser owners in getting through those tough spots, Toyota offers a system known as Active Traction Control or A-TRAC into the mix. This system combined with the ability to completely lock the rear differential, allows the FJ to navigate through some serious obstacles. Check out the following videos for more details on the A-TRAC system and the locking rear diff.
Active Traction Control System Demo 
Locking Rear Differential Demo
Given today’s advanced mechanical and electrical technologies, Toyota had to take extra steps to ensure that the FJ Cruisers gear boxes, breather assemblies and electrical systems would not fall victim to damage or failure as a result of extensive water contact or ingestion. Given the FJ’s capabilities, Toyota assumed from the get-go that advanced water fording capabilities would be required. Check out the last video to see how they built the FJ to withstand water-crossing conditions.
Well that about sums up today’s post. It’s a bit shorter than some of the previous entries, but hopefully I made up for the lack of quantity with quality. Don’t forget to check out the additional video footage at the top left-hand corner of some of the demos. These movies provide actual footage of the FJ Cruiser doing what it does best. Come back and see me tomorrow evening for the last but largest collection of Toyota’s video demonstrations outlining features from wipers and paint to wheels and floors. There’s a lot more to come so stay tuned!
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