Debating 4x4 vs. 4x2
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Fleet Owner
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Debating 4x4 vs. 4x2
Okay, this has been something I've batted around with several people on many occasions and it never seems to go anywhere. So I figured I'd bring it here to see what comes of it.
The terms 4x4 and 4x2 are commonly thought to mean that there are 4 wheels (1st number) by the number of those wheels that are (or can be) powered (2nd number.) Now here is where I see the difference. Let's say you have "4x4" with standard non-limited slip front and rear axles. On a slippery surface you can have one front and one rear tire spinning, while the other two sit still. That would make this "4x4" actually a 4x2, would it not?
Now think of a RWD only vehicle with a limited slip rear axle on a slippery surface. Two wheels will spin, correct? This gives it the same number of powered wheels as a supposed "4x4"
To me, a true 4x4 would demand that the vehicle have limited slip front and rear axles, correct? Only in this instance could you get power to all four wheels. Opinions please!
The terms 4x4 and 4x2 are commonly thought to mean that there are 4 wheels (1st number) by the number of those wheels that are (or can be) powered (2nd number.) Now here is where I see the difference. Let's say you have "4x4" with standard non-limited slip front and rear axles. On a slippery surface you can have one front and one rear tire spinning, while the other two sit still. That would make this "4x4" actually a 4x2, would it not?
Now think of a RWD only vehicle with a limited slip rear axle on a slippery surface. Two wheels will spin, correct? This gives it the same number of powered wheels as a supposed "4x4"
To me, a true 4x4 would demand that the vehicle have limited slip front and rear axles, correct? Only in this instance could you get power to all four wheels. Opinions please!
Laughing Gas
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Another thought. In an AWD with traction control when a wheel slip is detected the system applies the brakes to that wheel causing it to pull with the other wheel. (at least that is how I understand it to work) In those vehicles they do not have a limited slip diff..
Posting Guru
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I agree. However, in today's sense, a 4x4 is commonly where the front axle has power. 4x2 is either the front (cars typically) or rear (trucks and body on frame SUVs).
While I wish all 4 wheels would spin, I just don't think a manufacturer these days is going to make one that could be nearly as good as an aftermarket piece.
So, while you're right, you still wouldn't call a 4x4 vehicle that only has one wheel on the front and one wheel on the rear a 4x2. Nor would you call a one wheel peel a 4x1. It's just a 2wd vehicle.
-rockstate
While I wish all 4 wheels would spin, I just don't think a manufacturer these days is going to make one that could be nearly as good as an aftermarket piece.
So, while you're right, you still wouldn't call a 4x4 vehicle that only has one wheel on the front and one wheel on the rear a 4x2. Nor would you call a one wheel peel a 4x1. It's just a 2wd vehicle.
-rockstate
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It's more that 4 wheels have the ability to transmit power that it would be called a 4x4.
It's a common misconception that if a truck has an open diff only one wheels gets power. That is incorrect. When there is available traction BOTH wheels get the power. However, when traction is lost it goes to the wheel with the least amount of traction.
A 4x4 with open diffs still powers all 4 wheels.
Traction devices, limited slip, lockers, spools etc. are simply that; devices that aid in low traction situations.
It's a common misconception that if a truck has an open diff only one wheels gets power. That is incorrect. When there is available traction BOTH wheels get the power. However, when traction is lost it goes to the wheel with the least amount of traction.
A 4x4 with open diffs still powers all 4 wheels.
Traction devices, limited slip, lockers, spools etc. are simply that; devices that aid in low traction situations.
