Odd 4WD Question

[Clyde Frog]

In the part time 4WD 03 Renny (I believe it's 4-Hi; I apologize if it's not, I'm new to 4WD), is there a max speed for the different levels of 4WD? I thought I had read somewhere that there were different max speeds for each different level of 4WD but now I'm hearing differently from other people that I've been talking to.

I just want to ensure that I'm not going to blow my 4WD. I only use it when necessary (snow, sleet, etc) but I typically am able to do a comfortable 35-40 MPH with part time engaged even in poor conditions and just wanted to make sure that this is safe for my little Libby.

I tried searching the forums but I wasn't able to find a good thread regarding this. Didn't look that hard either, though

 

[HoosierJeeper]

4 lo max is 25....but you can go as fast as what's safe (conditions) otherwise...

 

[kj924]

Let us know what Transfer case you have. Selec Trac or Command Trac?

 

[Robsama]

I thought the top recommended speed for 4HI was 55MPH. That might depend on the type on trans but... if you need 4WD should you be going faster than 55MPH?

 

[sleeve]

The Top Speed to SHIFT into / out of 4-high is 55MPH. Only use the 4WD system when there is enough snow / dirt on the road surface to allow for the front wheels to slip. You should never engage 4-Hi to drive on rainy roads. If you need 4WD for snowy roads - chances are you shouldn't be traveling above 55MPH anyway.

For 4-Low I wouldn't try shifting into / out of over 5MPH. And as posted already do Not exceed 25MPH while in 4-low. In fact - you should really leave the transmission in gear postion 1 or 2. [Shifting between gears in 4-Low puts extra stress on the system and can lead to problems if you do it constantly]

If you have the Full-Time system than you can shift into / out of that position up to 55MPH while you are going in a straight line. This system will allow you to drive around in 4WD on dry paved roads without exploding the Transfer Case.


The transfercase takes Mopar ATF+4 fluid [the Mopar stuff]. Change the fluid ever 15K miles and try to engage the Transfercase every 3-6 months to keep the parts nice and free.