How Does AWD work?
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New User
Joined: May 2004
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How Does AWD work?
I have a 98 explorer 5.0 AWD and I was curious to how the AWD operates. It is continuously on or is it traction control sensed? I tried to do a search but couldn't really come up with much. So idealy, is it better to have AWD or 4x4? The AWD is nice because it is always on, no deciding if I should put it on or not. I think I read somewhere that the AWD has different operation modes in which it gets more power than the rear if the rear slips, but otherwise it isn't operational. Anyone know the real deal? Thanks
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2001
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From: Raleigh, NC
AWD is totally mechanical. The engine splits power 35/65 front to back. When the system senses slippage, it can reverse itself or can send up to 100% of the power to the front wheels. The difference between this system and a 4x4 system is that 4x4 system has a low range for '95-'96 and a high range for '98-present. I hope this answers your question.
Postmaster
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 3,742
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From: UT
As I understand it, the AWD system is always sending a good portion of power forward (~30%). When it senses spinning in either axle, it can divert more power to axle that isn't spinning, up to about 97%.
This depends entirely on what kind of 4WD system you like. Personally, I wouldn't want a 4WD system that doesn't have a selectable low range, but that's just me. Others prefer the AWD system because, like you said, it's always on and doesn't require any input from the driver.
is it better to have AWD or 4x4
