Four Wheel Drive System

All four wheels on a vehicle can spin simultaneously with a four wheel drive system. The transfer case in all 4WD vehicles prevents the front and rear axles from spinning at different speeds. The transfer case allows the engine to provide maximum torque to the axle and wheels, which helps to maintain traction. There are different 4WD configurations, each using different technologies to meet the needs of the driver. A locking differential is a feature of some 4WD systems. To achieve maximum traction, both wheels on the axle will turn together. The limited-slip differential is another variation. If one wheel slides or slips, the device can detect it and send torque to the other wheel to help it regain traction. While an automatic hub allows users to automatically command the front wheels in order to engage the 4WD system, a manual hub requires users to manually engage the front wheel drive mechanism in order to fully engage the 4WD system. Our service staff have extensive experience working on all types of 4WD systems.​

Benefits

The performance of a smooth and consistent four wheel drive system is made possible through routine maintenance, which can vary from vehicle to vehicle and from system to system. It is extremely important to consult your owner’s manual when it comes to scheduling services within the proper maintenance intervals. The rougher the terrain, the heavier the impact on the life of your 4WD system. You should schedule 4WD maintenance based on where you drive most often and how much time your vehicle spends traversing difficult terrain. If you're experiencing excessive noise while switching between gears, transfer case gear leaks and failures, unusual vibrations, or a warning light on the dashboard, it's likely that your 4WD system is in need of repair. Our staff is ready to help you with all aspects of 4WD maintenance, whether you are in need of an inspection or repair.​

Four Wheel Drive System Services

Four Wheel Drive Inspection
Approximate Time:  30 Minutes
A four-wheel drive vehicle provides power to all four of its wheels. Four wheel drive systems give drivers better traction on snow, ice, and off-road terrain. There are two types of 4WD vehicles--full-time and part-time. The driver can engage and disengage the 4WD system as desired, and it is designed to be used under conditions where poor traction is an issue. Any type of surface can be driven on while operating a standard full-time 4WD system, which consistently delivers power to all four wheels. The goal of a 4WD system is to provide power to the wheels to prevent slippage. The various parts of a four wheel drive system. This includes the differentials, hubs, and the transfer case. The transfer case helps deliver power to both the front and rear axles, while hubs help secure the wheels. During a 4WD service, drivers should watch over the different parts of the system and have them routinely inspected to keep the vehicle performing as intended.​

Hub Service
Approximate Time: 90 Minutes
Locking hubs, which are also known as free wheeling hubs, play a vital role in four wheel drive systems. Locking hubs, which are usually located on the front wheels of part-time 4WD vehicles, are used to engage the front wheels and transform them into drive wheels as needed. If a vehicle's hubs are not locked, it will not be able to enter four wheel drive mode. Locking hubs are responsible for disengaging a vehicle from four wheel drive in addition. If a driver wants the benefits of each drive mode, working hubs on a part-time 4WD vehicle are important. While two wheel drive provides better fuel economy and prevents excessive tire wear, four wheel drive allows a motorist to maintain a high level of control when driving on rough terrain and in harsh environmental conditions. The ability to switch between modes is possible because of locking hubs.

Transfer Case Repair
Approximate Time: 180 Minutes
The transfer case, a type of gearbox usually located behind the transmission, helps operate four wheel drive systems. The transfer case is responsible for distributing the right amount of torque to the axles, based on the driver's input. The transfer case in 4WD and all wheel drive vehicles uses gears (and often a chain if the vehicle is a modern make or model) to help the vehicle enter into or maintain four wheel drive. To keep the gears operating correctly, all transfer cases also use a lubricant. We advise our customers to watch over and repair their respective transfer cases when needed, because transfer cases play a key role in the performance of a 4WD vehicle. The recommended transfer case inspection interval will vary depending on the vehicle. Drivers should look to their owner’s manuals and vehicle manufacturers for recommendations.​

Transfer Case Service
Approximate Time: 60 Minutes
One of the serviceable components in a four wheel drive system is a transfer case. The transfer case, which is present in both full-time and part-time 4WD vehicles, operates with the help of gears and, in many modern cars, a chain. A transfer case is usually indirectly connected to the rear of the transmission. The transmission sends power to the transfer case. The transfer case sends power to the front and rear drive shafts. The transfer case allows the wheels to spin at the same speed, allowing the vehicle to enter or maintain four wheel drive. Part-time 4WD vehicles often use a transfer case with an extra set of gears that allows for the creation of extra torque through the selection of a high or low gear range. This can make climbing steep hills and mountains easier. Cases that are transferred also contain a lubricant that helps keep gears running smoothly. It is important that drivers maintain them because they are a significant part of the 4WD system.​