how far to safely drive in 4x4 Low Range?

[gbraden]

I was always under the impression that I should never drive on a hard surface, such as asphalt, in 4x4 Lo Range, no matter how short the distance.

Now, a mechanic friend tells me that it is OK to do so for a short distance, such as while backing a trailer into a tight spot.

What do you folks have to say about that?

Glenn

 

[chazj]

I've used 4x4 in low range to back up without any problems. Makes it easier to avoid riding the clutch when backing up the trailer.

 

[rbattelle]

I agree with your friend.

In low range, just don't drive fast (which is impossible anyway), and keep the wheel pointed straight.

I do it once in awhile just to be sure the transfer case is functioning normally. I've always done it with all my 4wd vehicles - never had a problem with any.

The reason you're supposed to use 4wd only on slippery surfaces is because when you turn the front and rear wheels follow different arcs. As a result, they rotate at different speeds. There's no differential in the transfer case, so something has to allow the wheels to slip. A slippery roadway conveniently provides this slipping action.

However, I've found that even in heavy snow the truck bucks like crazy during sharp (>50% steering) turns because the trucks great weight provides traction despite the snow.

The NV271/273 transfer case is pretty heavy duty, and can handle a lot of abuse.

Ryan

 

[surfbeetle]

what you to worry about is binding the drivetrain. The fronts will spin at a slightly different rate than the rears. If you drive on the hard surface and turn, there is really no give as there would be on dirt or other slippery surfaces. This is what can cause the damage. I used to have a chevy luv 4x4 and we would use the transfer case in low range with the manual hubs unlocked to move the trailer around. There is a way to effectively prevent the front axle from locking on the 2nd gens, not sure about the 3rd gen trucks.

 

[nickleinonen]

However, I've found that even in heavy snow the truck bucks like crazy during sharp (>50% steering) turns because the trucks great weight provides traction despite the snow

i have noticed that too, but only at slow speeds. . i just give 'er a bit and slide the truck a little to prevent it [and lets face it, drifting is plan old fun ]

 

[klenger]

If you are backing into a tight spot, then you are turning sharp, which causes drivetrain binding. I wouldn't do it, ... meaning ... I don't do it. I don't have any problems in 2WD .

 

[Forrest Nearing]

only if you have a 2w low kit on your truck... otherwise it's REALLY hard on drivetrain parts