I have a 02 Screw Lariat 4x4. I am new to the 4x4 world and would like some advise. I noticed in the manual that you shouldn't drive the truck on dry surfaces while in 4x4. My question is what if there is patches of snow or ice or mud in certain areas but not too far apart from each other but in between is dry surface. Do I have to switch from 4x4 to 2x4 in between each patch?

 

As long as you are driving straight ahead and over a short distance, you'll be OK. It's mainly turning on dry patches that you want to avoid. Since the front wheels travel farther around a corner than the rears, when the vehicle is in 4wd, it puts some tremendous strain on the driveline if the wheels aren't able to slip. If you are on wet, loose, rocky, sandy, or snowy surfaces, you will usually be OK because the wheels can slip a bit. Even when you are driving straight ahead, there are still some differences from front to rear (due to uneven tire sizes) but they are minimal.

By the way, congrats on the truck and welcome! You should be able to waste TONS of time here with us searching for answers!

-Joe-

 

Thanks!! and thanks for the info. That makes good sense.