Looking for tips on using the 4x4 in the cold snowy winter..

[aaronk]

I've been told to use the 4x4 sparingly..

We just recently got our first large dumping of snow but there will be lots more to come and in town I find using 4x4 a lot safer. I understand using on the highway or at high speeds is not recommended.
What can you tell me about using the 4x4 on my Delica L400 Diesel?
Also my shifter has "4LLC,4HLC,4H,and 2H" if you could fill me in on this also..

Thanks!!

[lizzard]

Hey
There is a lot of info on the site about using the 4 x 4 system, just type in 4 x 4 on the search and lots of posts come up.
But, as a former Prairie kid who spent plenty of time driving in snow with and without 4 x 4 I'll tell you that you can use the 4 x 4 at high way speeds ( but be sensible when it comes to conditions) the real determining factor is the surface you are driving on. On completely "bare" asphalt or pavement I wouldn't use it. But in snow, ice or gravel you could. As long as the driving surface has "some give"
Just make sure your speed matches your conditions, I now live in BC and have travelled the Coquihalla highway enough to see too many 4 x 4s in the ditch or completely totalled, 4 x 4 does not mean drive with your head up your rear
Lizzard

As for your question about the info on the 2H 4H etc. on your shifter. 2H = 2 wheel drive high range (normal) 4H = 4 wheel drive high range (this would be what to use for "normal 4 wheel driving at speed) the 4L = 4 wheel drive low range for serious deep snow/ sand or off-road where you would not be traveling at any "normal road speed"
I'm not sure what the distinction is between the two 4L "modes", perhaps someone with a 400L can answer that as I have an L300 and mine just has the one 4L mode.

I found this thread that had some real good and quick answer for your questions which I could not answer fully
http://www.delica.ca/forum/4-wheel-driv ... 13574.html

Hopefully it works or paste it in, there will be your answer

[philmeup1]

I'm now just on my 2nd year anniversary with my '93 L300 Super Exceed. Why'd they call it a "Super Exceed"? Because it's unbelievable in the deep snow when you're in 4wd.... I live in Peterborough Ontario and last week we got completely dumped on with a whack of snow.

I figured it was time to put the van to the test. In 2wd it's complete shite. But put it in 4 and you're the king of Kensington!!! I couldn't get it stuck if I tried. And that's with yer average all season radials on the thing. Folks just watched in awe as I took on the snowiest side roads and steepest hills with ease. Everyone else was truly getting stuck!!!

As lizard says, it's not a licence to be completely reckless. But you certainly have the advantage over most other vehicles.... The grin on my face that day was from ear to ear. And as I've said before, when the zombies come.....................

[Tinytoy]

Lc= locked center diff= part time 4x4. No dry pavement.
4h = all wheel drive unlocked center diff. Viscous coupling.
Check the L 400 pdf on this site.

[Firesong]

In the l400 you can drive in 4H all the time. That is AWD mode. Not in 4HLC since that turns in to true 4wd locked center diff.
In the L300 there is no AWD mode and thus can't use it full time unless slippery surfaces exist at all times.

[Erich]

As the others have said, 4WD doesn't mean you can drive with abandon. 4WD means all four wheels are being powered. When you hit the brakes, all four wheels are locked up.

[yojimbo]

You'll find the best way to use 4wd in snow is to start with decent tyres

[Firesong]

The AWD mode is almost... as good as my H6 Subaru Outback.. almost
= Pretty darn good. Running Hankook snow tires.

Lots of snow here in Saskatoon...

Finally put my winter fronts on

[Mr. Flibble]

Always remember: 4X4 helps you go. It does not help you to stop.

When you are braking, it is just like any other car, so don't drive too fast for the conditions.

[Firesong]

And yes you can use 4H or AWD at highway speeds.