v=9hiR92VKAYw

 

Maybe the extra weight of the Aerostar helped its traction. I wonder if the Escape had open differentials at both ends. That would make it a 2wd vehicle if the center was locked. My van has LSD in the back, so at worst it becomes a 3wd vehicle when the center locks.

One time I came back from a day of skiing at Mammoth, and snow was up to the bumpers on everyone's cars/trucks, SUVs. I was a little worried when I saw 8 guys trying to push out a 4wd Suburban parked next to me. I used a window squeegee and dug a trench behind each wheel before starting. Amazingly, I rolled right out with no drama at all, and went on my way while the Suburban was digging itself deeper into the snow.

 

The Escape is not a true truck. It has a transverse engine with a PTO to transfer power to the back. I "believe" it is 70% front and 30% rear power distribution. That is why it was easier for him to back up the hill instead of going forward.


Where the Aero is the opposite, 70% rear, 30% front so it could easily handle going up. plus the locking t-case at that speed would lock up on-off when slippage is detected at that speed, where the Aero shines.


This was the number 1 reason we got the Aero, winter driving. Right after we purchased the Aero, my wife slid into a ditch with twice that grade. She stopped at the bottom of the ravine, got her senses, and just pointed it towards the road and pushed on the gas, it went back up with no problem.


Also I have noticed when driving on winter roads, on inclines at lights, the big 4X4 lifted trucks are fighting to move, sliding around, where I can just put along with no issues at all.

 

I will also add, that the big aggressive tread these punks put on their lifted trucks are ok on gravel and pavement, but get horrible traction in snow and mud. Looks cool, but no practical function.

 

x2. Very true!