What Is A Four-W h

What Is A Drivetrain?
Excluding the engine, the mechanism that supplies power to the driving
wheels is known as the drivetrain. Based on the utility of a vehicle, its
drivetrain can be designed to send power to either one set of wheels or all
four wheels. We will explain each configuration in detail below:

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1. Two-wheel Drive (2WD):
A two-wheel-drive system, as the name suggests, has engine power directed
to two wheels only. These can either be the front wheels or the rear wheels.
In a front-wheel drive system, the engine is laid out in a transverse
configuration, i.e., it is perpendicular to the axis of the car. This layout
enables the engine to connect to the front wheels directly. A rear-wheel drive
system has its engine laid out longitudinally, meaning it is laid along the axis
of the car. The engine gets connected to the rear wheels through the
transmission employing a driveshaft.
2. Four-wheel Drive (4WD):
A four-wheel drive system can be understood as a combination of the FWD
system and the RWD system acting in tandem, which enables the engine to
connect to and send power to all four wheels. A four-wheel drive system can
either be active at all times or switch between 2WD and 4WD, as required.

Components And Working Of A Four-wheel Drive System

A 4WD system comprises a longitudinally mounted engine that transfers
power to all four wheels through special gearing arrangements known
as differentials. The engine connects to these differentials by means of a
drive shaft, which feed the power to the wheels by means of drive axles. A
four-wheel drive system, in its simplest form, is composed of the following
components:

THE Differential

A differential allows wheels with a common axis to spin at different speeds

(Photo Credit : patruflo/Shutterstock)
A differential does precisely what it sounds like: creates a difference – in the
amount of power going to a particular wheel within a set of driving wheels. It
consists of a gear train designed to allow two wheels sharing the same axis
to spin at different speeds by varying the amount of power delivered to each
wheel.

A differential is employed when a car is turning a corner. Let’s illustrate this

with an example. If a car were to take a left turn, the left side wheels, or the
‘inner wheels’, would sweep less distance when compared to the right side
wheels, or the ‘outer wheels’ in the time it would take to execute the turn. It
implies that the outer wheels are spinning at higher speeds, compared to the
inner wheels. Since the outer wheel is connected to the inner wheel by an
axle, it is impossible to achieve this difference in speed without causing
catastrophic mechanical failure.

The differential allows the outer wheels to spin faster than the inner wheels,
thereby allowing for the execution of a smooth turn without loading the axle.
To facilitate better turning, both the front and rear axles have their own
differentials that connect to their respective set of wheels by means of a
drive axle.

A simple differential sends power to the path of least resistance, which often
makes it unfavorable in low traction situations. To overcome this, adjustable
differentials are designed to prevent the loss of valuable power to freely
moving wheels.

Transfer Case

A transfer case transfers power from a longitudinally-mounted engine to the

front wheels by means of a drive chain
Owing to its longitudinal configuration, the engine can only supply power to
the rear wheels directly. In order to power the front wheels, a chain-driven
arrangement, known as the transfer case, is employed. The transfer case
connects to the front differential by means of a driveshaft, which then
supplies power to the wheels.

Driveshaft And Drive Axles

A driveshaft is a rod that connects the engine to the differentials. It is
designed to allow for relative movement between the wheels and the engine
so that power transfer does not cease due to misalignment. A drive axle
connects the differentials to the wheels and is again designed to allow for
wheel travel according to the contour of the terrain.

Working Of A Four-wheel Drive System

A 4WD system distributes power to all 4 wheels of the car through the
differentials. In high-traction driving, for example, on the road, it is usually
unnecessary to engage 4WD and power is only directed to the rear wheels.
Upon encountering a low-traction situation, such as ice or sludge, the
differentials can be adjusted to send maximum power to the wheels that
have the maximum traction. This enables the vehicle to overcome slippery
terrain without losing control.

Pros And Cons Of A Four-wheel Drive System

PROS:

1. Improved traction, as power gets sent to all four wheels

2. A vehicle can overcome arduous terrain easily, as there is greater control
over the amount of power that gets sent to each wheel
CONS:

1. Increased fuel consumption

2. Use of 4WD in high-traction situations can be incredibly stressful to
mechanical parts, especially during turns
3. Makes the entire drivetrain bulky and complex to service.

Advancements In The Four Wheel Drive System:

Any advancements in the 4WD system can be attributed to two factors:
differential design and electronics.

The development of locking and limited-slip differentials was instrumental in

overcoming the disadvantage of simple differentials: the loss of power at the
wheel with the least traction. This has given rise to partial 4WD, full-time
4WD, and all-wheel drive systems that are employed over a variety of
vehicle types.

Sensor technology and electronic actuation have eliminated manual

engagement of 4WD . With the introduction of sensor technology and
electronic actuation, the need for manual engagement of 4WD systems by
 locking differentials and driveshafts has been eliminated. A vehicle’s onboard
computer selects the most optimum setting based on the terrain, thereby
preventing hassles for the driver.

Applications Of A Four-wheel Drive System

1. Hauling heavy loads downhill at slow speeds, such as in trucks or pick-up
vehicles
2. Sport, adventure driving and off-roading, such as on the race track, for
mountain trails or river wading, etc., such as in Jeeps or SUVs.
3. Road-going vehicles, such as saloons and limousines, where 4WD
capabilities are only available on-demand.

Use 4WD in the following situations:

 When you need additional torque/power, such as pulling heavy loads at

slow speeds.
 When you descending at slow speeds while hauling a heavy load.
 When you are going over steep inclines and declines, such as rocky
situations.
 When you are stuck in snow, mud, or sand; however, stop immediately if
your wheels are spinning

4WD Tips and Tricks

 4WD vehicles work best when they are regularly used and maintained
according to manufacturer recommendations. If you don’t use the 4WD
system for extended periods of time, the seals can dry out. It’s best to
keep the system lubricated by activating it at least once every few
months.
 Only use 4WD when you need it to save as much gas and money as
possible. Driving 4WD on mild, dry conditions can do damage to your front
axles, differential gears, and other parts. Always use 2WD on dry
pavement.
 If you get stuck, switch to 4WD and slowly depress the gas pedal to get
yourself out. If the wheels start spinning, stop before you dig yourself a
deeper hole

Note: Do not use 4X4 mode on dry, hard surfaced roads. Doing so will
produce excessive noise, increase tire wear and may damage drive
components. 4X4 mode is only intended for consistently slippery or loose
surfaces.
Note: If 4X4 low is selected while the vehicle is moving above 3 mph
(5 km/h), the 4WD system will not perform a shift. This is normal and should
be no reason for concern. Refer to Shifting to/from 4L (4X4 Low) for proper
operation.
Manual Shift On Stop (MSOS) 4WD system (If Equipped)
Note: Some vehicles may be equipped with wheel ornaments that cover
the 4x4 manual hub lock. These ornaments must be removed to access the
manual hub locks.
Note: The vehicle should not be driven in 4X4 High or 4X4 Low modes with
the hub locks set to FREE as this condition may damage driveline system
components.

The 4WD system is engaged or disengaged by rotating the control for both
front wheel hub locks from the FREE or LOCK position, then manually
engaging or disengaging the transfer case with the floor-mounted shifter. For
increased fuel economy in 2WD, rotate both hub locks to the FREE position.
Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly (ESOF) 4WD system
Note: If 4X4 Low is selected while the vehicle is moving above 3 mph
(5 km/h), the 4WD system will not perform a shift. This is normal and should
be no reason for concern. Refer to Shifting to/from 4L (4X4 Low) for proper
system operation.
Note: Auto-manual hub locks can be manually overridden by rotating the
hub lock control from AUTO to LOCK.
For proper operation, make sure that each hub is fully engaged and that both
hub locks are set to the same position (both set to LOCK or both set to
AUTO). To engage LOCK, turn the hub locks completely clockwise; to engage
AUTO, turn the hub locks completely counterclockwise.
The ESOF 4WD system:

 provides 4x4 High engagement and disengagement while the vehicle is

moving.
 is operated by a rotary control located on the instrument panel that
allows you select 4x2, 4x4 High or 4x4 Low operation.
 uses auto-manual hub locks that can be engaged and disengaged
automatically based on the 4x4 mode selected.
 will increase fuel economy when used in the recommended AUTO lock
mode.

4WD Indicator Lights

Note: When a 4X4 system fault is present, the system will typically remain
in whichever 4X4 mode was selected prior to the fault condition occurring. It
will not default to 4X2 in all circumstances. When this warning is displayed,
have your vehicle serviced by an authorized dealer.
4X2

Momentarily illuminates when

2H is selected.
4X4 HIGH

Continuously illuminates when

4H is selected.
4X4 LOW

Continuously illuminates when

4L is selected.
CHECK 4X4

Displays when a 4X4 fault is

present.
Using a Manual Shift On Stop (MSOS) 4WD system (If Equipped)
Note: High shift efforts may be encountered when attempting to shift into
and out of 4x4 modes. It is recommended to allow the vehicle to roll at a
speed below 3 mph (5 km/h) when shifting between modes.
2H (2WD)
For general on-road driving. Sends power to the rear wheels only and should
be used for street and highway driving. Provides optimal smoothness and
fuel economy at high speeds
4H (4x4 High)
Used for extra traction such as in snow or icy roads or in off road situations.
This mode is not intended for use on dry pavement.
N (Neutral)
Only used when towing the vehicle. No power to front or rear wheels.
4L (4x4 Low)
Uses extra gearing to provide maximum power to all four wheels at reduced
speeds. Intended only for off road applications such as deep sand, steep
grades or pulling heavy objects.
Shifting between system modes
Note: Do not perform these operations if the rear wheels are slipping.
Note: Some noise may be heard as the 4x4 system shifts or engages. This
is normal. In order to reduce engagement noise, it is recommended that all
shifts be performed at speeds below3 mph (5 km/h).
Note: The vehicle should not be driven in 4X4 High with the hub locks
disengaged as this condition may damage driveline system components.
Engage the locking hubs by rotating the hub lock control from FREE to LOCK,
then move the transfer case lever from 2H (2WD) to 4H (4x4 High) at a stop
or a vehicle speed below 3 mph (5 km/h).
Move the transfer case lever from 4H (4x4 High) to 2H (2WD) at a stop or a
vehicle speed below 3 mph (5 km/h), then disengage the locking hubs
(optional) by rotating the hub lock control from LOCK to FREE.
For proper operation, make sure that both indicator arrows on the hub are
aligned, and that both hubs are set to either FREE or LOCK.
Shifting to/from 4L (4x4 Low)

1. Bring the vehicle to a stop or a speed below 3 mph (5 km/h).

2. Place the transmission in N (Neutral).

3. Move the transfer case shift lever through N (Neutral) directly to the
desired position.

4. If the transfer case does not, or only partially moves to the desired
position, perform a shift with the transmission in N (Neutral) and the
vehicle rolling at a speed below 3 mph (5 km/h).

5. If shifting to 2H (2WD) with the vehicle at a complete stop, disengage

the locking hubs (optional) by rotating the hub lock control from
LOCK to FREE.

Using the N (Neutral) position

WARNING: Do not leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case
in the N (Neutral) position. Always set the parking brake fully and turn off the
ignition when leaving the vehicle.

The transfer case neutral position overrides the transmission and puts the
vehicle in neutral regardless of transmission gearshift lever position. The
vehicle can move forward or backwards.
This position should only be used when towing the vehicle.

Using the Electronic Shift on the Fly 4WD system (If Equipped)
2H (2WD)
For general on-road driving. Sends power to the rear wheels only and should
be used for street and highway driving. Provides optimal smoothness and
fuel economy at high speeds.
4H (4X4 HIGH)
Used for extra traction such as in snow or icy roads or in off road situations.
This mode is not intended for use on dry pavement.
4L (4X4 LOW)
Uses extra gearing to provide maximum power to all four wheels at reduced
speeds. Intended only for off-road applications such as deep sand, steep
grades, or pulling heavy objects. 4L (4x4 low) will not engage while the
vehicle is moving above 3 mph (5 km/h); this is normal and should be no
reason for concern. Refer to Shifting to/from 4L (4x4 low) for proper
operation.
Shifting between system modes
Note: Momentarily releasing the accelerator pedal while performing a shift
will improve engagement/disengagement times.
Note: Do not perform this operation if the rear wheels are slipping.
Note: Some noise may be heard as the system shifts or engages; this is
normal.
Note: 4X4 high mode is not intended for use on dry pavement.
You can move the control from 2H or 4H at a stop or while driving. The
information display may display a message indicating a 4X4 shift is in
progress. Once the shift is complete the message center will then display the
system mode selected.
If SHIFT DELAYED PULL FORWARD is displayed in the information display
during the mode shift, transfer case gear tooth blockage is present. To
alleviate this condition, place the transmission in a forward gear and move
the vehicle forward approximately 5 ft (1.5 m) to allow the transfer case to
complete the mode shift.
Shifting to/from 4L (4X4 low)
Note: Some noise may be heard as the system shifts or engages; this is
normal.
Note: 4x4 low mode is not intended for use on dry pavement.

1. Bring the vehicle to a speed of 3 mph (5 km/h) or less.

2. Place the transmission in N (Neutral).

3. Move the 4WD control to the desired position.

The information display will display a message indicating a 4X4 shift is in

progress. The information display will then display the system mode
selected. If any of the above shift conditions are not met, the shift will not
occur and the information display will display information guiding the driver
through the proper shifting procedures.
If SHIFT DELAYED PULL FORWARD is displayed in the information display,
transfer case gear tooth blockage is present. To alleviate this condition,
place the transmission in a forward gear, move the vehicle forward
approximately 5 ft (1.5 m), and shift the transmission back to neutral to
allow the transfer case to complete the range shift.

WARNING: Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and

four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a lower center
of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering
at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sports cars are
designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp
turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to
drive cautiously could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control,
vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.

Truck and utility vehicles can differ from some other vehicles. Your vehicle
may be higher to allow it to travel over rough terrain without getting hung up
or damaging underbody components.
The differences that make your vehicle so versatile also make it handle
differently than an ordinary passenger car.
Maintain steering wheel control at all times, especially in rough terrain. Since
sudden changes in terrain can result in abrupt steering wheel motion, make
sure you grip the steering wheel from the outside. Do not grip the spokes.
Drive cautiously to avoid vehicle damage from concealed objects such as
rocks and stumps.
You should either know the terrain or examine maps of the area before
driving. Map out your route before driving in the area. To maintain steering
and braking control of your vehicle, you must have all four wheels on the
ground and they must be rolling, not sliding or spinning.
Driving Off-Road With Truck and Utility Vehicles
Note: On some models, the initial shift from two-wheel drive to four-wheel
drive while the vehicle is moving can cause some momentary clunk and
ratcheting sounds. This is the front drivetrain coming up to speed and the
automatic locking hubs engaging and is not cause for concern.
Note: Your vehicle may be equipped with a front air dam that can become
damaged (due to reduced ground clearance) when taking your vehicle off-
road. This air dam can be taken off by removing two bolts.
Four-wheel drive vehicles are specially equipped for driving on sand, snow,
mud and rough terrain and have operating characteristics that are somewhat
different from conventional vehicles, both on and off the road.
Power is supplied to all four wheels through a transfer case. On four-wheel
drive vehicles, the transfer case allows you to select 4WD when necessary.
Information on transfer case operation and shifting procedures can be found
in this chapter. Information on transfer case maintenance can be found in
the Maintenance chapter. You should become thoroughly familiar with this
information before you operate your vehicle.
Four-wheel drive (when you select a 4WD mode) uses all four wheels to
power the vehicle. This increases traction, enabling you to drive over terrain
and road conditions that a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle cannot.
Basic Operating Principles

 Drive slower in strong crosswinds which can affect the normal steering
characteristics of your vehicle.
 When driving your vehicle on surfaces made slippery by loose sand,
water, gravel, snow or ice proceed with care.
 Do not use four-wheel drive on dry, hard surfaced roads. Doing so will
produce excessive noise, increase tire wear and may damage drive
components. Four-wheel drive modes are only intended for
consistently slippery or loose surfaces.

If Your Vehicle leaves the Road

If your vehicle leaves the road, reduce your vehicle speed and avoid severe
braking. When your vehicle speed has been reduced ease your vehicle back
onto the road. Do not turn the steering wheel sharply while returning your
vehicle to the road.
It may be safer to stay on the shoulder of the road and slow down gradually
before returning to the road. You may lose control if you do not slow down or
if you turn the steering wheel too sharply or abruptly.
It may be less risky to strike small objects, such as freeway reflectors, with
minor damage to your vehicle rather than attempt a sudden return to the
road which could cause your vehicle to slide sideways out of control or roll
over. Remember, your safety and the safety of others should be your
primary concern.
Emergency Maneuvers
In an unavoidable emergency situation where a sudden sharp turn must be
made, remember to avoid over-driving your vehicle (i.e. turn the steering
wheel only as rapidly and as far as required to avoid the emergency).
Excessive steering can result in loss of vehicle control. Apply smooth
pressure to the accelerator pedal or brake pedal when changes in vehicle
speed are required. Avoid abrupt steering, acceleration and braking. This
could result in an increased risk of vehicle roll over, loss of vehicle control
and personal injury. Use all available road surface to bring your vehicle to a
safe direction of travel.
In the event of an emergency stop, avoid skidding the tires and do not
attempt any sharp steering wheel movements.
If your vehicle goes from one type of surface to another (i.e. from concrete to
gravel) there will be a change in the way your vehicle responds to a
maneuver (i.e. steering, acceleration or braking).
Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels on the most solid area of
the trail. Avoid reducing the tire pressures but shift to a lower gear and drive
steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly and avoid
excessive wheel slip.
When driving at slow speeds in deep sand under high outside temperatures,
use a low gear when possible. Low gear operation will maximize the engine
and transmission cooling capability.
Avoid driving at excessive speeds, this causes vehicle momentum to work
against you and your vehicle could become stuck to the point that assistance
may be required from another vehicle. Remember, you may be able to back
out the way you came if you proceed with caution.
Mud and Water
Mud
Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you are
driving in mud. Even four-wheel drive vehicles can lose traction in slick mud.
If your vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain
control of your vehicle.
After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts and
tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts can cause an
imbalance that could damage drive components.
Water
If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or brake
capability may be limited.
When driving through water, determine the depth and avoid water higher
than the bottom of the hubs. If the ignition system gets wet, your vehicle
may stall.
Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop your
vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by applying
light pressure to the brake pedal while moving slowly.
Note: Driving through deep water may damage the transmission. If the
front or rear axle is submerged in water, the axle lubricant and power
transfer unit lubricant should be checked and changed if necessary.
Driving on Hilly or Sloping Terrain
Although natural obstacles may make it necessary to travel diagonally up or
down a hill or steep incline, you should always try to drive straight up or
straight down.
Note: Avoid turning on steep slopes or hills. A danger lies in losing traction,
slipping sideways and possible vehicle roll over. Whenever driving on a hill,
determine beforehand the route you will use. Do not drive over the crest of a
hill without seeing what conditions are on the other side. Do not drive in
reverse over a hill without the aid of an observer.
When climbing a steep slope or hill, start in a lower gear rather than
downshifting to a lower gear from a higher gear once the ascent has started.
This reduces strain on the engine and the possibility of stalling.
If your vehicle stalls, do not try to turn around because this could cause
vehicle roll over. It is better to reverse back to a safe location.
Apply just enough power to the wheels to climb the hill. Too much power will
cause the tires to slip, spin or lose traction, resulting in loss of vehicle
control.

Descend a hill in the same gear you would use to climb up the hill to avoid
excessive brake application and brake overheating. Do not descend in
neutral. Disengage overdrive or move the transmission selector lever to a
lower gear. When descending a steep hill, avoid sudden hard braking as you
could lose control. The front wheels have to be turning in order to steer your
vehicle.
If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, apply the brakes steadily. Do not pump
the brakes.
Driving on Snow and Ice

WARNING: If you are driving in slippery conditions that require tire chains
or cables, then it is critical that you drive cautiously. Keep speeds down,
allow for longer stopping distances and avoid aggressive steering to reduce
the chances of a loss of vehicle control which can lead to serious injury or
death. If the rear end of your vehicle slides while cornering, steer in the
direction of the slide until you regain control of your vehicle.

Note: Excessive tire slippage can cause transmission damage.

Four-wheel drive vehicles have advantages over two-wheel drive vehicles in
snow and ice but can skid like any other vehicle. Should you start to slide
while driving on snowy or icy roads, turn the steering wheel in the direction
of the slide until you regain control.
Avoid sudden applications of power and quick changes of direction on snow
and ice. Apply the accelerator slowly and steadily when starting from a full
stop.
Avoid sudden braking. Although a four-wheel drive vehicle may accelerate
better than a two-wheel drive vehicle in snow and ice, it will not stop any
faster as braking occurs at all four wheels. Do not become overconfident as
to road conditions.
Make sure you allow sufficient distance between you and other vehicles for
stopping. Drive slower than usual and consider using one of the lower gears.
In emergency stopping situations, apply the brake steadily. Do not pump the
brake pedal. See Hints on Driving With Anti-Lock Brakes.

If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck In Mud or Snow

.
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow, it may be rocked out by shifting
between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts in a steady
pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating
temperature, damage to the transmission may occur.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle for more than a minute, damage to the
transmission and tires may occur or the engine may overheat.
Parking
On some four-wheel drive vehicles, when the transfer case is in the N
(Neutral) position, the engine and transmission are disconnected from the
rest of the driveline. Therefore, the vehicle is free to roll even if the
automatic transmission is in P (Park) or the manual transmission is in gear.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the N (Neutral)
position. Always set the parking brake fully and turn off the ignition when
leaving the vehicle.
Maintenance and Modifications
The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been designed
and tested to provide predictable performance whether loaded or empty. For
this reason, we strongly recommend that you do not make modifications
such as adding or removing parts (i.e. lift kits or stabilizer bars) or by using
replacement parts not equivalent to the original factory equipment.
We recommend that you use caution when your vehicle has either a high
load or device (i.e. ladder or luggage racks). Any modifications to your
vehicle that raise the center of gravity may cause your vehicle to roll over
when there is a loss of vehicle control.
Failure to maintain your vehicle correctly may void the warranty, increase
your repair cost, reduce vehicle performance and operational capabilities
and adversely affect you and your passenger's safety. We recommend you
frequently inspect your vehicle's chassis components when your vehicle is
subject to off road usage.

FULL TIME AND PART TIME 4WD

A full-time 4WD system
is simple. With full-time 4×4, the vehicle will operate by default in four-wheel
drive mode, using a center differential to turn the front and rear driveshafts at
independent speeds.
In a part-time 4WD system,
a vehicle will operate primarily as a two-wheel drive vehicle as long as conditions
allow. The part-time system doesn’t have a center differential, instead operating
in a way that locks either the front or rear driveshafts to deliver power where it is
needed most during difficult or off-road driving conditions.
Why You Shouldn’t Drive With Part-Time 4WD On All The Time
A full-time 4WD system will be able to adjust torque delivery to each individual
wheel as necessary, meaning you can use it on any road in any condition. It is
simply operating all the time.
Part-time doesn’t quite work the same way, and in fact, part-time 4×4 should not
be used all of the time. If you have a Jeep with part-time 4WD, you should be able
to switch between 4WD and 2WD, and it is recommended that you switch back to
2WD whenever operating the vehicle on a normal road surface in dry conditions.
Using the 4WD function in such conditions when it is not necessary can cause the
system to wear out prematurely and/or overheat. You may even hear a shudder
that indicates something isn’t quite right, prompting you to switch back to 2WD

What’s the difference between Part-Time

4wd and Full-Time 4wd?
.

Part-Time 4wd

Part-Time 4wd Gear Selector

 Part-time 4wd is selectable from H2 to H4 (see above photo).

 When in H4, both axles are driven at the same speed which causes axle
wind-up when cornering.
 When travelling on an unsealed road surface in H4, axle wind-up is
dissipated through road wheel slip due to travel on a low traction
surface.
 Therefore, H2 must be used travelling on a sealed road surface to avoid
axle wind up damage.
Full-Time 4wd

Landrover 4WD CD Gear Lever

 Full-time 4wd has a centre differential (CD) to prevent axle wind-up on

sealed roads.
 The CD allows the front and rear axle to be driven at different speeds
when cornering.
 The CD has a negative effect when travelling on unsealed roads as it
tends to want to send all of the drive out of the wheel which has the
least resistance.
 Some full-time 4wds have a manually locking CD (see above photo)
while others have an automatic system which engages as and when
needed.