Unique Transmission Maintenance Tips for 4 Wheel Drive Cars

If you own a two-wheel drive vehicle and are looking to upgrade to a four-wheel drive truck, then it is essential to know that the maintenance of the latter is entirely different from the former. Most importantly, you have to know where the difference lies in the maintenance needs of a four-wheel drive transmission over a two-wheel drive. This article highlights some of the unique maintenance needs of a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Transfer Case -- As you already know, the work of the gear system is to deliver power to the wheels. Therefore, the gearbox of a four-wheel drive truck works extra hard because it transfers power to the four wheels a pair at a time or to all tires all at once. Such rigors make a 4WD vehicle to require regular maintenance and check-up of the transfer case. For instance, make sure that the transmission fluid is at the right level at all times. When you see fluid running out of the transfer case, then it is probably overfilled, which might be caused by a broken seal at the back of the case. Regular checks on the seal will guarantee optimal performance of the truck.

Differential -- As 4WD tires spin at different speeds in most cases, the differential needs extra care compared to other types of transmissions. High spinning speeds produce a lot of heat on the diff; therefore, there should be enough oil to control the temperatures. Such checks depend on the load placed on the transmission. For instance, you will be required to change the fluid in the transmission case after every 30,000 miles on normal usage. However, if you plan to drive your truck on off-road terrain frequently, then you need to be twice as careful with how you treat the transmission case. Most importantly, the frequency of maintenance checks increases with an increase of the load exerted on the transmission system.

Motor -- The transfer case moves through the gears using an engine. Since it is located on top of the transfer case, it is left exposed. While this is its usual placing, lack of regular maintenance can cause damage. When the motor has exposed electrical connectors, you should coat it with di-electric grease to prevent it from corroding as well as from conducting electricity. If you do not grease it as required, the outside might look fine, but electric connectors have a bad habit of corroding from within.