Testing and maintaining the 4x4 system

[redlyne_mr2]

How strong is the 4x4 system in these trucks? What do I need to do to keep them running strong. Any tests while driving that I can do to make sure everything is working properly.

[Simon]

Well, not really while driving....but here's one thing I did while looking for 4x4 vehicles to ensure that it was working.

 

In a parking lot, put it in 4HI, and turn the wheel as sharp as you can to either side. Move forward SLOWLY. What you should feel is a little hop/bucking as the tires sort of bind against themselves. Good, quick test. I stress SLOWLY though, as you don't want to bind up your transfer case on dry pavement.

 

Now...with that said....

 

The 4x4 system in these trucks is fairly stout. The hubs are typically the weakest link, and most serious wheelers change them out to manual locking hubs. In order to ensure that it keeps working, change the fluid in your diffs, and t-case in accordance with Nissan maintenance requirements, and don't under any conditions, use 4wd on dry pavement. It'll tear up the transfer case in no time.

 

Yes, I realize my example for testing the 4x4 tells you to do just that, but it's only very slowly, and just enough to feel a little buck. Then turn the 4x4 off.