Preparing for Snow in my Limited

[Ryan F.]

Members,

The possibility of deep snow exists mid week for my area. I have read all of the threads, and I want to make sure that my interpretation is correct as I plan my driving procedures. As I drive through my development in say 6-8 inches of snow, 4HF would probably work, but 4HL would be acceptable? My route to work is a 4 mile stretch essentially straight with some minor elevation changes. Again, I'm thinking 4HF, but 4HL would be okay? Let's say that the snow goes out of control and we are talking 10 inches or more. Would you go L4L, and enable the A-TRAC? My speed would be in the < 30 mph range given the conditions. I guess my other question is: Do you go the the various settings prior to driving, or react to what the conditions are? Yes, I am aware that I can shift from 4HF to 4HL on the fly, and to shift to L4L requires the stop/neutral procedure. I have owned my RAV4 for 10 years, but this is my first shot at snow with some technological options, and I want to have some fun with it.

 

[JasonCz]

If you have an AWD limited, you should be fine. I personally would only shift into 4H (locked) when you start to slip. 4L would only be recommended for crawling where you don't want your wheels to break traction.

Use ATRAC like you would with a rear locker. Basically only to get yourself out of a bind where at least one wheel per axle is slipping and you need to force power to the other wheels with traction.

 

[M1911]

If the snow was that deep, I'd lock the center diff. Also, if the snow is up to the frame, then it really depends upon the texture of the snow. Light, fluffy snow is fine. But if the snow is heavy and wet, you'll likely get stuck. Also, snow tires really help in deep snow.

 

[Quentin]

Drive in 4H until you start noticing slipping. Then shift into 4HL
Drive in 4HL until you start noticing slipping. Slow down.
Drive slower in 4HL until you get stuck. Then shift into 4LL w/ ATRAC.

Really, the plows will be out and about so you shouldn't be blasting through 10 inches of untouched snow. I figure you'll get most places you want to in 4H.

 

[4Robber]

Drive in 4H until you start noticing slipping. Then shift into 4HL
Drive in 4HL until you start noticing slipping. Slow down.
Drive slower in 4HL until you get stuck. Then shift into 4LL w/ ATRAC.

Really, the plows will be out and about so you shouldn't be blasting through 10 inches of untouched snow. I figure you'll get most places you want to in 4H.

Yep!

6-10" - Shift into D and GO baby!!

Snowy streets was the main reason I went w/ the limited. I've always driven AWD cars (Subaru/BMW/Audi) and the 4Runner is king!

...though the Subaru is a beast as well. It's amazing how fast you can get going in those things.