DIY repair · Lexus LX 450

Center diff lock (CDL) switch install

DIFFICULTY 1 / 5TIME Under 1 hourCOST $79 for the 1995–1997 Slee kit (TOY1002), per Off-Road.com

Symptoms

You want to lock the center differential in high range on snow, sand or washboard, but US trucks only lock it automatically in low range.

The fix, step by step

  1. Take off the center dash face, mount the switch in a blank and plug it into the factory harness, which is already wired for it.
  2. Then put the dash back together.
  3. Lock the center diff only on loose surfaces.

Tools & part numbers

  • Trim tools
  • screwdriver
  • CDL switch kit

Where to buy the parts

Switches (CDL switch kits)Slee Off-Road ↗Amazon ↗
CDL switch (search)CruiserTeq ↗

Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Lexus LX 450 parts →

Before you start

Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.

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