So, this might be a known issue, but here goes anyway. WHy do I have difficulty turning when in 4X4 Low or High?

 

oops

 

Its normal.

 

Are you using 4x4 in dry surface with plenty of traction. If you are not using the 4x4 on a surface that will give or is slippery, then you will notice a grinding sound when turning the front wheels. That is a sign that you do not need to have 4x4 engaged. 4x4 should be reserved for low traction scenarios.

 

Because your front wheels are connected to your transmission (through the driveshafts) and are pulling along with the rear wheels. Whenever you turn, the outside wheel has to travel a longer distance than the inside wheel. This is in conflict with the drivetrain trying to make all wheels turn at the same speed. Hence the machine tries to adjust to the path of least resistance (travelling in a straight line).

I assume this is the first four wheel drive vehicle you've ever owned?

 

Not normal, disengage 4x4.

 

Since we don't know the circumstances of which you are talking, I will assume you are trying to turn in 4x4 on dry pavement or during moments of high traction. I only use mine when driving in snow or mud. I get the most excitement driving in the mud.

 

I live in South Florida. Hurricane Katrina just came through and put a tree on my yard fence. I tied the tree with a tow strap to my tow hitch and enganged the 4x4 low. I pulled it right out, but I was forced to turn because of the immediate path ahead of me.

When finished with the tree, I took the truck for a drive to "check out" the 4x4. Yes, this is my first time w / a 4x4. Honestly, I thought I would of had to take my truck to the dealer.

question...Is this an issue with both 4x4 low and high or just low?

 

the circumstance of which I speak is grass (wet) and concrete (my lawn and sidewalk on the curb)

 

Refer to my earlier reply. It has nothing to do with high or low range, it has to do with the front wheels pulling along with the rear wheels.

 

Gotcha!!! So then the questions becomes...when you are off-roading in, say, mud..How do you use 4x4 setting. If I need to turn, am I hosed?

 

Was your truck having difficulty driving on this grass in 2 wheel drive? You were spinning the rear wheels driving over the grass and on the curb?

 

Thats the it, couldn't have said it any better.

 

Since I was pulling a tree, I automatically put it in 4 wheel drive, 1st gear. It was pulling while in the grass.

 

never, never engage 4Hi or 4Lo on dry surfaces! It's a 4wd vehicle, not awd.

Your truck has no mechanism to allow the two axles to turn at different speeds. That's why it won't turn if you are on dry surfaces in 4wd.

The *** only *** time you should ever be in 4wd is in snow or mud (rain does not count - or if you start spinning pulling a tree like the original poster). But as soon as you are done yanking that tree you'd better get it right back in 2wd.

Running in 4wd on anything BUT snow or mud WILL destroy your drivetrain. Busted transfer case, axle shafts, something will give.

Been driving 4wd trucks for 20+ years- trust me.