Proper Way to Shift_ Into 4WD

[Dr Phat]

Hello!

4WD (Obviously) 03 Nissan Crew Cab XE Longbed.

Automatic with the shifter coming out of the floor NOT on the steering column. I have the manual shift (not just the little turn dial) though for switching between 2WD, 4H, N, and 4L. Whats the proper procedure for popping it into 4WD?

[Inyourface1650]

4 Hi you can do on the fly...I am pretty sure.....
4 low you need to stop, put the tranny in neutral, and then shift into 4 low.

Coming out of 4 wheel drive, reverse 10 feet or so to let the hubs unlock.

[Dr Phat]

Ah thanks. I went from 4H and switched back and went to 2WD and it didnt say it switched back on the dash. Moved it back and forth a couple times and moved foward a bit and it changed. Am I still ok?


Went to an old abanoned property to check out if thise lake was frozen yet and had some fun on the grass. Must say the long beds throw a nice whip!

[Inyourface1650]

Originally Posted by Dr Phat

Ah thanks. I went from 4H and switched back and went to 2WD and it didnt say it switched back on the dash. Moved it back and forth a couple times and moved foward a bit and it changed. Am I still ok?

Yeah, you have to release all the binding in the front drive system for the hubs to unlock. When you moved and did all that it finally released.

Thats why if I am in a vehicle with hubs I will just reverse it until the light goes off.. Pops out every time

[Dr Phat]

Ah ok. I just didnt want to be driving down the highway, wondering what that horrible noise was, and what Im doing looking at a transfer case behind me.

[Mylt1]

our 4wd system is not meant to be used on the road unless it is covered in snow. with part time 4wd systems there is no slippage in the TC so it can get binded up and destroy itself.