Auto 4WD - Impressed
11-25-2015, 09:28 PM
#1
Beer Gut Extraordinaire
Thread Starter
Auto 4WD - Impressed
We just got our first major snowfall here in Alberta and I've finally had the chance to test out the 4A setting which is the 2 speed transfer case on Lariat and above.
I must say, I am really impressed with this system. I have owned 3 FX4 trim level F-150's (05, 11 and 13) and all have had traditional ESOF transfer cases with a 2HI, 4HI and 4LO setting. My dad had a 2011 Limited with the "AWD" setting on the dial and it would wait until the rear wheels spun and slammed into 4HI with a loud bang and a thunk underneath. Basically a regular transfer case with an automatic solenoid on it.
The 4A system in my Lariat is so seamless. It automatically engages the front diff when you drive away from a stop so the front wheels are already engaged. It sends power to the front when the front needs it and keeps the front axle disconnected on the highway for better fuel economy. I have never heard a single clunk or felt anything going on underneath, it just does it quietly and smoothly with no noise or drama. Plus, at low speeds it disengages so the front axles don't bind while turning. This setting inspires confidence and really makes the best use of the factory all terrains. Ford took forever to bring out an AWD mode and it was definitely worth the wait! Very impressive.
I must say, I am really impressed with this system. I have owned 3 FX4 trim level F-150's (05, 11 and 13) and all have had traditional ESOF transfer cases with a 2HI, 4HI and 4LO setting. My dad had a 2011 Limited with the "AWD" setting on the dial and it would wait until the rear wheels spun and slammed into 4HI with a loud bang and a thunk underneath. Basically a regular transfer case with an automatic solenoid on it.
The 4A system in my Lariat is so seamless. It automatically engages the front diff when you drive away from a stop so the front wheels are already engaged. It sends power to the front when the front needs it and keeps the front axle disconnected on the highway for better fuel economy. I have never heard a single clunk or felt anything going on underneath, it just does it quietly and smoothly with no noise or drama. Plus, at low speeds it disengages so the front axles don't bind while turning. This setting inspires confidence and really makes the best use of the factory all terrains. Ford took forever to bring out an AWD mode and it was definitely worth the wait! Very impressive.
11-25-2015, 09:34 PM
#2
Senior Member
I used mine today in the snow and ice. It does work well. Do you notice a vibration and sound under hard acceleration? I feel it in the feet. Its much better then when new.
11-25-2015, 09:42 PM
#3
Beer Gut Extraordinaire
Thread Starter
A little bit of a vibration. Just feels like a little more load on the engine as it is turning a whole other drive axle and front diff, CV axles etc. Much less noisy than my '11 and '13 in 4HI.
11-26-2015, 03:53 AM
#4
Senior Member
Imagine how impressed you would be with having a seemless auto-4WD system in a truck 15+ years ago.
I know I was. Of course back then I was driving a GMC.
I know I was. Of course back then I was driving a GMC.
11-26-2015, 04:30 AM
#5
Senior Member
In Calgary and have to say 15 in 2WD reacts better than 13. If I want 4wd I must shift manually buy I am happier than 13. No clunk, driveline noise and handling is better.
11-26-2015, 09:38 AM
#7
