Engaging Four-Wheel Drive on Dry Pavement: Is It Ever Safe?
We all know it’s not a good idea to drive on dry pavement in four-wheel drive, but what if circumstances force you to?
In the world of trucks, there are countless old wive’s tales out there that we’ve all heard numerous times in our lives. But like most superstitions and sayings, not all of them are true. Others, maybe partially true. So, you can’t really blame F-150 Online Forum member mstaszew for questioning the validity of one of the oldest and most prominent warnings we’ve heard recently. That question? Whether or not it’s safe to cruise around on dry pavement with four-wheel drive engaged.
“I need to engage four-wheel drive on dry pavement because my 4×4 hub actuator is toast and grinding/humming a bit. It started six weeks ago and only did it four times after that. I took it to a shop and they said they couldn’t reproduce the problem, and that was that. Yesterday, it started doing it regularly. I found videos and parts (actuator, solenoid, vacuum check switches) online and I am going to tackle this myself, but the parts won’t be in for two days.
Is driving in four-wheel drive on dry pavement going to break anything? Or am I OK for a few days at speeds under 55? I’ve seen a lot of conflicting info online including different spin rates, etc. And then I see other info saying that in full-time four-wheel drive vehicles that’s a non-issue, just avoid tight turns. So, what’s the straight dope on this?”
It’s a fair query indeed, given all the varied information out there on this controversial topic. But it quickly becomes apparent that the OP has come to the right place, as he receives a couple of great responses. Starting with one from MitchF150.
“It’s fine as long as you go in a straight line. Start doing a lot of 90 degree turns, even at low speed, and there will/could be some binding. I regularly ‘exercise’ my 4×4 from time to time when I’m stuck in traffic and going straight. Just pop it into 4-high for a bit and pop it back out as traffic dictates.”
Fellow member glc also shares a great idea that should help the OP solve his problem in the short term.
“I would not engage four-wheel drive, leave it in two-wheel drive. What I would do is remove the vacuum lines from the hubs and plug them. The hubs will be engaged, but the front driveshaft will not be, thereby not straining the system. No speed or turning restrictions if you do this.”
These excellent responses are just further proof that the folks here in the F-150 Online forums are always willing and able to help. Especially with questions that you’ll otherwise have a hard time finding clear answers to. But still, we want to know what you think. So head over here and tell us if you agree with these recommendations, or if you have another one to add to the list!
Photos: F-150 Online Forums
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