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But why does it also say LSD? Are they referring to the E-locker as an LSD?
I think ATRAC work just fine with LSD? LSD would allow more than 25% (50% with the central diff locked) power to a wheel without applying as much brakes (you don't have to drag the wheels anymore). It's just going to make an LSD more capable as the driver only has the option of braking all four wheels or the two rear wheels simultaneously, the computer will just be optimized for LSD (it's the same software program, it just wouldn't be worked as hard and would yield better results than just plain LSD or plain ATRAC)
I've also done some extremely demanding offroad driving and as a general statement I'll comment that the electronic systems are road-appropriate but only good for mild offroad. This is generally perfect for 99.9999% of owners who, as was stated well above "don't have time to set up the vehicle when they hit a slick spot in ordinary driving".
Also, LSDs are actually very helpful when offroading contrary to an above statement. I've gotten through some of Moab's tougher trails with a completely stock vehicle that had only an LSD as a traction aid. I could walk the truck uphill with one rear tire gently spinning in the air, and with gentle parking brake use it darn near felt like a locker. I think it's safest to stick to generalities on this topic. The Hummer electronic system kicks butt on extreme stuff, and as noted some manual traction aids (Torsen mechanical diff) are relatively ineffective offroad where most manual traction aids shine - both counter to typical comments.
As a perfect illustration of "it depends", I was once challenged to a snowy hill climb by a military Humvee in my stock Montero ( factory rear locker, good snow tires). I kicked their butt soundly despite many advantages accruing to their vehicle, including the age old advantage of "it's not my vehicle, so I'm gonna beat the crap out of it to beat that guy"... So, a lot of stuff depends, but the biggest variable is often the experience and skill of the driver when going offroad.
IdahoDoug
tidester, host
Sorry.
tidester, host
tidester, host
1. I got bored.
2. I have been in finance for almost 2 years now and don't have as much current information as I once did so there is less for me to comment upon.
3. I took up a new hobby. I've taken to building rifles and there is a bulletin board dedicated to home builders. Its kind of like Edmunds for battle rifles. Its been fun to learn from the experts and become more and more informed and able to comment on a new interest.
I appreciate the kind words here. I'll check in from time to time but I doubt I'll be as active as I once was.
tidester, host
Would that be a violation of rules tidester or steve?
sclifford@kjtoyota.com
Thanks, Matt
Makakio
Yesterday I was at a long stop light, with the transmission in neutral. I remembered that it had been about a month since I'd used 4WD and that the manual recommended using it for 10 miles or so, at least once/month. I rotated the switch to the 4-Hi position and after several seconds of the dash light flashing, it went on steady, indicating 4WD. I then put the transmission in gear and drove away when the light changed. No problem.
In normal driving at speeds below 60 MPH it seems to usually take several seconds to switch. For my vehicle, at least, time seems to be a better guide than distance. As I said, I wish I understood this better.
[Hey Cliffy1, it's good to have you back!]
It seemed to work anyway, as the 4WD light flashed and then turned on steady. I assume that meant I had shifted successfully.
Maybe I'll have to repeat the experiment a few times and see if I learn more.
Typically, shifting into 4WD requires engaging a "dog-clutch", a splined shaft, and if by happenstance the two parts are alligned when stopped they will oftentimes engage, but that will be something of a rarity.
So I'm 2-for-2 on attempts to switch to 4WD in neutral at a stop. I'll experiment more when I can remember to do so.
Seriously, it is sad that this is the most entertaining thing I could find to do this weekend. Actually, I am "chomping at the bit" for fall and the first chance to really try out my new 4wd. My family has a long history of getting our 2wd vehicles good and stuck- from cars to pickups to tractors. I am confident I will find somewhere soon to prove my grandfather right, "A 4wd vehicle is very good at getting you stuck much further from any well maintained road".
Thanks to whoever can successfully do this and finally end the confusion created here with all the wizards of 4wd flexing the brain and egos. i just need practical applications .
Why don't you just read the manual? It explains how to use the system.
When was Texas bashed?
The only other thing you can do with the 4WD in the V8 is to put it in low range. This is also mainly useful for offroad, but I've used it a couple times in deep snow, too. This just makes your vehicle go slower for a given engine speed in each gear, resulting in better crawling ability. I don't think I've had my vehicle above about 20mph in 4LO.
wwest: bug off, especially if you're not driving a toyota!
tidester, host
Check out SUV for Beach Sand in the archives for lots of tips.
Steve, Host
I didn't have any problem.
only 15K miles on it. :-( Mechaninc sais that it's normal "transmisiion loosen up" which i think is not true.
Check www.aamco.com -
http://www.aamco.com/main/transmissiontrubleshtng/detailed_transm- issiontrubleshtng/transmissiontrublesht_guide.html#NOISE%20IN%20T- HE%20TRANSMISSION
they say it can be a problem with CV or U joints...
Finally, stay off the dune grass...
Reminds me of the story about the guy following taillights in a heavy fog at night....