48RE almost didn't start the load

[wbrasher]

Tim, I'm not sure I understand your statement about parttime system. If you are pulling straight ahead why would it hurt your drivetrain to pull in 4 wheel low range?

Thanks

 

[DPKetchum]

The older models could be shifted to 4 low but left in 2wd. Some needed a minor mod to do this.

 

[pwerwagn]

Tim, I'm not sure I understand your statement about parttime system. If you are pulling straight ahead why would it hurt your drivetrain to pull in 4 wheel low range?

Im not Tim, but I think I can answer his question.

If the truck is loaded or not, the front/rear tires do not have equal load on them, usually not equal pressures, and therefore they are not the same static loaded radius. This makes the effective gear ratios different at each end, which theoritically could cause binding and eventually breakage. Like I stated above, no two tires are the exact same height. The difference is usually minimal, though.

In my opinion the difference is not enough to hurt anything.

Also, if you notice, usually from the factory, the front/rear axles do not match as far as ratios go. You will see 3. 54 infront with 3. 55 in back, or sometimes 4. 09 and 4. 11, ive even seen a 3. 50/3. 55 combo once. this is not really enough to make a difference either, though.