I have a '97 F-150 4WD. While living in FL I used 4WD frequently. Having now lived in SC for 3.5 years I have only engaged 4WD once.

Does 4WD need to be engaged to do - whatever, or is no harm done in I don't engage it? I'm sure engaging it every so often is good practice, but do I do any real harm if I don't find a dirt road to drive on with 4WD?

Thanks
Robert

 

I don't see why it would hurt it. It probably wouldn't be a bad idea to check it over before you use it again, might want to check you diff fluid....but seriously loosen up and have some fun once and a while!!

 

Any real damage? I doubt it, but those components need to get a little exercise every now and then.

 

Engage it every now and then and drive it for a couple minutes in a straight line.

 

OK, guess I'll slip in 4WD for a short ride on a short dirt road. I didn't know if there was any fluid in the gear case that needed thrashing around to stay useful and not turn to sludge, or maybe the gears, when engaged, would throw fluid up onto something, or seals that might dry up, or something like that.

Thanks