4-wheel-drive transmissions are a favourite for people who drive in rough terrain or snowy conditions. They are also a must-have in most sport utility vehicles today, even if the owners do not buy them to drive off-road. A 4-wheel-drive vehicle distributes an equal amount of torque to all the four wheels, as opposed to a 2-wheel-drive vehicle that delivers torque to either the front or rear differential.
Below are a few four-wheel-drive vehicle maintenance tips.
Suspension
You should always inspect your suspension before and after an off-road trip. Check for cracks and remove any dirt caught up on your suspension system. Always observe the recommended maintenance schedule for your shocks and springs. If you intend to enhance the vehicle for extreme off-road conditions, you may need to customise your entire suspension to suit your needs.
Fluid change
The transfer case requires fluid to ensure the gears move smoothly. As such, you must do regular checks on the transfer case fluid. At times, the wheels turn at different speeds. Such occurrences cause the differential fluid to wear out. Regular inspections are therefore recommended. You must observe the recommended fluid change intervals. If you subject your vehicle to regular stress, then you should change the fluids more frequently.
Ride height
Each manufacturer has a specific ride height for four-wheel transmission vehicles. Sometimes, you might find that the ride height is a bit low, so the car gets hit by rocks and other obstacles when driving off road. You should consider fitting a sump guard as well as adjusting the ride height using spacers. The sump guard is a metal plate that prevents damage to the engine sump and other essential components under the vehicle.
Tyres
Tyres are an essential component of every four-wheel drive vehicle. They ensure that you have sufficient grip on the road; therefore, they should always have the right amount of tread on them. You should also check the tyre pressure. Low tyre pressure puts you at risk of losing control of the vehicle. It also leads to high fuel consumption and increased wear of the tyre. Finally, regular wheel balancing and alignment will ensure your four-wheel-drive handles optimally.
Vehicles with 4-wheel-drive transmissions are fun vehicles to drive. To get the best out of the car, always ensure that the suspension, fluids and tyres are in excellent condition. The ride height should also be suitable for your intended application.
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