Page 19 - Jeep Jamboree Ultimate Guide To Safe Common Sense Off-Roading

DIFFERENTIALS

POTENTIAL POWER PATH ABSOLUTE POWER PATH

TWO-WHEEL DRIVE FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE, OPEN DIFFERENTIAL
On high-traction surfaces (like the highway), power is delivered The front and rear differentials provide power equally to all four
through the transmission and the transfer case to provide power wheels when a part-time 4WD vehicle is engaged in 4WD.
to both axles.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE, OPEN DIFFERENTIAL FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE, LOCKED REAR DIFFERENTIAL
In a part-time 4WD vehicle on low-traction surfaces, the power Locking the rear differential sends equal power to each of the rear
will often take the path of least resistance and go to the wheel that wheels, no matter the traction level. So as long as one of those
moves easiest. This means the tires with the most traction are not wheels has traction, you’ll be able to creep out of the muck.
getting power, and you’re stuck spinning.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE, LOCKED FRONT AND
REAR DIFFERENTIAL
A part-time 4WD vehicle engaged in 4WD with lockers in both
axles will provide power to all four tires, no matter the surface. This
provides the ability to move in almost any situation.

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