I have a few questions about the Explorer AWD system. First of all I'm a little leary of not being able to switch between 4wd High and 4wd Low like I'm used to. I'm wondering how well the AWD system works. I'm just kind of paranoid of it not working as well as a regular 4wd system. Just looking for a few experienced opinions.

 

Your AWD is awesome. It works 100% of the time so that's why you don't have to switch. But the disadvantage for that is that you don't have the accessibility of 4WD Low.

Anyways...From the shop manual:

"The all-wheel drive (AWD) transfer case is a two-piece aluminum, chain driven, viscous clutch type unit. This produces a system in which all-wheel drive is always activated. All-wheel drive transfer case is automatic and has no external controls.

The viscous clutch is a non-repairable, torque distribution device. The internal construction of the viscous clutch consists of alternating plates that are connected to the front and rear outputs of the transfer case. The viscous clutch is filled with a high viscosity fluid which flows through slots in the plates. The resistance to shear causes the plates to transmit torque at the needed ratio. The ratio that torque is transmitted at is approximately 35% front and 65% rear.

A front differential compensates for the difference between the inner and outer wheels. However, when one driveline component travels farther than another, there will be driveline or torsional windup that must be released.


Operation

Torque is transmitted through the input shaft to the planet carrier assembly. Torque flow continues through the gear ring to the rear output shaft. Torque also flows from the planet carrier assembly to the sun gear shaft, which is splined to the drive sprocket. The drive gear is connected to the driven sprocket by the drive chain. Torque continues through the driven sprocket to the front output shaft flange. The viscous clutch provides the connection between the gear ring and the sun gear shaft."

 

I went from a GMC Jimmy to a 2K Ford Explorer with AWD and have never felt the need for Lo AWD in any driving condition, on and off road. Always amazed at the traction in almost any weather condition, snow, ice, rain and dry pavement. Persoanlly, I have not missed not having Lo.

Klaus