Hello all. Sorry in advance if this question should be somewhere else in the forum. I had a 2005 F-150 FX4 . When this truck was in 4WD, if you were turning into a parking spot, it was very hard to turn enough to get into the space properly. I now have a 2016 FX4 that I bought in September. Just had to throw it into 4WD this morning due to snow, and when turning into my parking spot at work, it didn't have that same " binding" feeling like the 2005 had . Is this non- binding due to improvements ? Or maybe due to the 2016 having electronic power steering? Any input is appreciated. Thanks .

 

It should have been binding unless it's All wheel drive that is different than 4wd.
Good luck.

 

Please be more specific. FX4 is an addition package onto a trim level option package. An XL or XLT with the FX4 package is not the same drive system as a Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, or Limited with the FX4 package. An XL or XLT with FX4 would bind very badly worse with the rear locker engaged, on dry pavement you would damage stuff from the binding. On muddy icy snowy roads where the tires can slip binding would be minimal.

With a Lariat or above package when in the 4A drive mode and the locker not engaged there would be no binding even on dry pavement.

 

The binding is when there is not enough slip on the road! So im guessing that this time there was more ice or snow on the ground which allowed more slip and less binding! But I would if I was you, when turning into a tight spot just throw it into 2wd to prevent binding, which is not good on the drive train!

 

You shouldn't be turning into a parking spot in 4wd (4H). As your owner manual says, it's not for use on dry surfaces; it will bind your drivetrain, cause unnecessary wear and strain, and potentially damage it. Read your manual.

If you have 4A (automatic) mode in your truck, you can use it on dry pavement because it only engages when it detects wheel slip. There's a ton of information available with a search that explains how 4wd works and how to use it. You can start with Ford's Youtube channel.

 

I had a '02 FX4 before my current '15 XLT, there's definitely a difference. I just assumed it was the epas and a slightly different, newer, 4x4 system. Also, the front half shaft knuckles could be worn contributing to the stiffer feel on the older ones.
But as stated on previous replies, flick it back into 2 is you need to turn sharply just to curb any damage.