4Wheel Drive

[Vern Losh]

I have a 2018 2500 Ram 6.4 hemi. Moved to Utah from California and just had my first real snow.

When I put the truck in 4 high or 4 low I get a real choppy action on slow turns with my tires. What the heck is going on?

At higher speeds no issues.

Thanks

 

[Burla]

Is this your first 4x4? They all do that. dont engage 4x4 on pavement.

 

[MADDOG]

That's normal.

 

[kurek]

When I put the truck in 4 high or 4 low I get a real choppy action on slow turns with my tires. What the heck is going on?

When you drive around in a circle do you leave 4 different tracks in the snow? Each tire is tracing a different sized circle, which means each tire is going a different distance.

For the left and right wheels that's sorted out by the differential - here's the best video explaining that if you're not already familiar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYAw79386WI

There is no differential between the front and rear axles in "true" 4WD vehicles so there is no way to resolve a difference in distance traveled when you turn. That means the tires skid (and additional strain is placed on the transfer case and axles) which is why you are advised to not use 4wd when you're on high traction surfaces like dry pavement.