N00b question...and obligatory pics

[g8rdmd]

Hey all, I'm new here and new to the T4R world...

Just picked up a 2002 SR5 4x4 with 147k miles :banana:

Now for the question...Do you guys run continuously in 4wd, or only switch when conditions warrant, like rain, snow, off-road, etc.? Does it hurt anything (other than MPG) to keep it full-time in 4wd? Pros, cons? Thanks, I've been enjoying lurking here and soaking up the info :thumb3:

 

[SamSter0077]

NICE!! 4wd only when I really need it.

 

[Mr. Leary]

Do not run it in 4wd above around 40 mph or on pavement. You will burn up your transfer case... (pretty sure your truck doesn't have a locking center diff, if not, someone will correct me)

Leave it in 2wd unless in low traction conditions. Use 4wd in Low Range when operating in rough terrain.

 

[daletehbest]

is there a problem running in 4wd in really rainy conditions or in snow on pavement?

 

[g8rdmd]

Do not run it in 4wd above around 40 mph or on pavement. You will burn up your transfer case... (pretty sure your truck doesn't have a locking center diff, if not, someone will correct me)

Leave it in 2wd unless in low traction conditions. Use 4wd in Low Range when operating in rough terrain.

It actually does have a locking center diff that I can switch on/off...does that make a difference? I'm new to the 4x4 world

 

[JoesTheShow]

is there a problem running in 4wd in really rainy conditions or in snow on pavement?

There really is no benefit to using 4wd in the rain, but go ahead and use it in the snow if you got a decent amount.

 

[brian2sun]

All '01 and '02 4x4s came with the multimode 4wd system (aka center diff lock). When you're in 4hi with the center diff unlocked you can go up to like 80 mph+. It's fine to use this type of 4x4 on road, it acts like AWD. But, in dry conditions if you drive around in 4x4 you're wasting gas and eating up your tires. Use it as needed:
Dry: 2wd
Wet: 2wd or 4Hi/center diff unlocked
Patchy snow or ice: 4Hi/center diff unlocked
Snow or difficult off road: 4Hi/center diff locked
Deep snow very difficult off road: 4Lo/Center diff automatically locked when in 4Lo.

 

[g8rdmd]

All '01 and '02 4x4s came with the multimode 4wd system (aka center diff lock). When you're in 4hi with the center diff unlocked you can go up to like 80 mph+. It's fine to use this type of 4x4 on road, it acts like AWD. But, in dry conditions if you drive around in 4x4 you're wasting gas and eating up your tires. Use it as needed:
Dry: 2wd
Wet: 2wd or 4Hi/center diff unlocked
Patchy snow or ice: 4Hi/center diff unlocked
Snow or difficult off road: 4Hi/center diff locked
Deep snow very difficult off road: 4Lo/Center diff automatically locked when in 4Lo.

That's exactly the run-down I was looking for...thanks!