Automotive Q & A

Answer:

There are many parts in four-wheel drive systems that make four-wheel drive vehicles possible. One such part is the transfer case. Transfer cases divide the transmission’s power, or torque, and send it to both the front and rear driveshafts. The transfer case also locks the front and rear driveshafts together. This will force both the front and rear wheels to turn at the same speed. In an all-wheel drive vehicle, transfer cases actually allow the front and rear driveshafts to operate at different speeds. This will help the vehicle drive on any surface and make steering easier. Transfer cases also give your four-wheel drive vehicle an extra set of gears, which allow your vehicle to lower your transmission’s gear ratios into what is called a low-range. This will provide your vehicle with more torque, which will enable it to travel up steep hills and through snowy and muddy surfaces.