The 4Runner is my first 4x4. I'm just trying to wrap my head around the various modes of 4x4, across the various models of the 4Runner.
From my research, as I understand it, the V6's 4Hi mode is EXACTLY the same as the always-on 4Hi of my V8. (Let me know if I'm off on that, or if there's any caveats).
I still have a question then, on what this 4Hi mode actually does, in terms of delivering effective power to each wheel, and comparing
4Hi + Center diff unlocked, vs
4Hi + Center diff locked.
With center diff unlocked, it seems to me that we still have open front & rear diffs, and power will still always go the wheel with the least traction.
- So even if just one wheel is completely off the ground, it will get 100% of the power (to spin uselessly), and no power will be delivered to any of the other 3 wheels.
- Is that an accurate assessment?
- Is this is true, then what's the point of 4Hi with center diff unlocked?
With center diff locked, we get a 50/50 split of power to the front and rear axels. So if one wheel is off the ground, there's still 50% power at the other axel.
My last question is - when I'm driving on gravel or dirt roads, should I just lock the center diff right away? Is there any reason or benefit to NOT locking the center diff if I'm on a loose surface?
