When I am on gravel roads I usually don't use the 4x4 until I think I need it. I was travelling with another truck this weekend on some roads that went ranged from flattish gravel to fairly steep and rocky. I was still able to get up most of the hills in 2WD but a friend was using his
4X4 the whole time and in 4LO much of the time.His idea was that it was easier on the drivetrain to spread out the torque over both differentials and that it was easier on the engine and tranny in LO. Even a small amount of slippage puts shock and stress on the drivetrain when the wheel spins and then stops.
All that makes sense to me, I think I have always tried to save the 4x4 for when I need it but maybe I haven't been thinking correctly about it.
So, when do you guys put the truck in 4x4 and 4LO and why?
Stephen N.--->and yes, it was hella fun.