I just picked up my 2002 F350 XLT 4x4 and realized I have no idea how the 4x4 system works. (I have barely driven the truck!)

In otherwords, does the rear differential lock when you engage 4H?

For those trucks with rear limited slip, is it a viscous LSD or mechanical?

How about the front diff, does it lock when you engage 4H? Is it limited slip?

Is this 4x4 system meant to be used on wet pavement? Or only loose surfaces or snow?

Thanks,

Lex

 

No, your truck won't have a locker in the rear unless someone installed an aftermarket unit. And if that's the case, the 4x4 system won't have anything to do with it locking & unlocking.

The stock LS a typical clutch based LS unit that performs average at best.

No, pretty much the same answer as that of your first question. You won't have a locker or LS up front unless someone installed an aftermarket unit. Again, the 4x4 system won't have anything to do with it locking/unlocking.

I would not use it on wet pavement unless absolutely necessary. It wouldn't be as bad as dry pavement but it would still put the driveline in a bind around turns. That being said, a few weeks back I actually had to engage my 4x4 on wet pavement because the hill was so steep and there were wet leaves all over the road. But it was a straight run and only about 20 feet at 2mph.

Hope this helps!

 

Jason,

Thanks for responding. This is what I expected.

If the system binds, this means the driveshafts much be "locked together" at the transfer case or the differentials are locked when in 4H.

I used to drive a Ford Ranger and this truck would lock its rear diff in 4H. It was a worthless 4WD system except for in snow or dirt....

 

Now I'm from Illinois but the only time We use 4 wheel drive on dry pavement is pulling wagons snow and mud. Its not made for dry pavement

 

More sophisticated 4WD systems allow use on dry/wet pavement (Subaru, Audi, many other Ford products etc). I suspect that Ford is forced to make this system simplistic in order to keep it cheap and robust enough for Super Duty use.

Bummer....

 

If you have a all wheel drive or an automatic 4x4 system that is a total different ball game
Also with the auto system comes with a little more problems than a normal 4x4 has due to the parts engaging and disengaging
More movement more problems

 

So true. You pay for the capability with complexity.

 

those aren't 4WD, but AWD systems. There is a difference.

 

Yes youre right. I misspoke. AWD.

I wish the f350 was AWD.