2004 limited 4wd info

[kumate]

Sorry for the repeat post wasnt sure about the correct forum. Was wondering if any body could help, My dad just passed and my mom is looking at a 04 limited explorer 4wd. I dont know much about these trucks and was wondering about reliability of the 4wd system, it says 2hi 4hi and has a all wd option, i generally dont like allwd vehicles. I am concerned about the 4wd system is this system a allwd? Did they offer it in just a straight 4wd? I have a k5 blazer that is 2wd until locked into 4wd hi or low. The salesman is telling my mother that the mercury mountainers were allwd but this is not dont know if he is giving her the straight scoop or not. The vehicle will be used in southern ill and 4wd will be used in the winter going up driveways and occasional use like that. How reliable is this system any thing to look for? any help is appreciated


thanks in advance Jerry

 

[gijoecam]

First, sorry to hear about your dad. On behalf of the forum, our deepest sympathies on your loss.

For '04, if it's selectable, it's not all wheel drive (and the salesman is an uninformed putz), it's automatic 4wd. The system is an electronically controlled on-demand transfer case. It's essentially 'rear wheel drive until it slips'. When you lock it in 4wd, it locks the transfer case for a true 50/50 power split. The system is pretty reliable. The 02-05 models seem to have a few issues with the 4wd control module failing, and the part is a little pricey, but replacement is a fairly simple DIY job.

The all wheel drive system is not selectable, and is completely different internally. It uses a viscous coupling to send power to all four wheels at all times. It's a completely different system.

-Joe

 

[kumate]

Thanks for the kind words and info I really appreciate it

 

[kumate]

Ok Guys, I know you already gave me the skinny, but this salesman is assuring my mom that on this year model that it is only in 2wd until you push a button to engage into 4wheel options, I tend to believe You ford enthusiasts as you dont have a horse in this race and nothing togain but this guy is adament, my mom says she is going back and he is going to show her that it isnt in 4 whell until you engage it