Driving in snow

[Brazos]

I know there has to be many threads on this but my searches came up with nothing. I am a new 4Runner owner and made sure I got 4wd for my winter trips to CO. I read the book about how the 4wd system works but feel I am still lacking some info. If I were driving on a snow covered road would I use the center differential lock? I have heard not to use locking (axle) differentials in snow on other vehicles. I am not sure how the two compare.

Thanks,

Brazos

 

[CJ3Flyr]

I'd say no to center-diff lock in the snow. It'll be necessary in deep, very low speed snow such as parking lots or pulling off of the road into deep snow. The VSC will "over control" the throttle and cut the throttle so much you may get stuck.

When driving in the snow 4hi is a better deal because the VSC will help control the traction and skidding. When the center-diff is locked the VSC is disabled.
:cheers:

 

[magnumfan]

I agree with my colleague CJEFlyr

I'd say no to center-diff lock in the snow. It'll be necessary in deep, very low speed snow such as parking lots or pulling off of the road into deep snow. The VSC will "over control" the throttle and cut the throttle so much you may get stuck.

When driving in the snow 4hi is a better deal because the VSC will help control the traction and skidding. When the center-diff is locked the VSC is disabled.
:cheers:

If you T4R is a V8, you probably dont need to ever do anything - because its always in 4WD if its a V6, then put it in 4WD Hi and I wouldnt even think about the diff lock - unless your in really nasty stuff.

That and get a set of good snow tires - tires makes all the difference in snow

joe

 

[Bossman]

I have a 2003 Limited 4WD V8 and just left it in 4Hi for the entire winter - never had a problem with heavy snowfalls or icy roads. I also just ran it on all-season tires (brand new with excellent tread). Winter tires would give you much more traction.

With my Lexus LS400, winter tires were an absolute must.

Best suggestion I can give you is to find an empty parking lot when the snow hits and find out what your T4R can do - figure out its limits as far as traction goes. And have some fun doing some doughnuts while the traction control beeps at you.

 

[morphius909]

4HI + Snow Tires (This is a must, 4Hi + All Seasons are useless).

Like the previous poster replied, you have the V8 so you are constantly in 4Hi, so just pick up a good pair of snow boots.

I run with the Michelin X-Ice, great tires. I prefer Nokians from Finland but they are $$$$$$.