AWD vs. 4wd

[Cobra01]

What is the differance between the two?

I was wanting to lift it, but the only kit available (Superlift) is for 4wd. I'm fairly handy, and have several good shops around, so I could do most any mod nessisary to make it fit. The AWD does great off-road, so I don't really want to convert it.

And does anyone actually know a person with a Superlift kit on their 95-97?

 

[410Fortune]

yes there are lots of Superlift kit owners here for the IFS (Gen II) Explorer's.

AWD = just what it says, all wheels drive at all times, computer controls slip and send power to front/rear biast, or to each single wheel depending on the system

4x4 = LOW RANGE

 

[Nitrous SSC]

The AWD doesn't have a Computer. Its a Viscus style system that uses a fluid to help shift the power to the front. The rear wheels are driven by a straight shaft that goes through the T-case.

You don't get a low range but a few things I have loved about my AWD. Snow and Rain. It drives awesome! Its never let me down in anyway for those. And yes It dosn't have a low range but I've been able to get up everything I've had the balls to try. The only problem is coming down the hills you have to ride your brake a bit. If you plan on the occational wheeling AWD is just fine.

Also All the lifts that will fit the 4x4 models will fit the AWD ones. The only difference in them is the transfercase. Everything else is the same.

 

[Cobra01]

Sweet, I was worried about the fitment, but I think I'll get it now.

I've been able to do everything my friends' Trucks have done, with even less slipping than them. I have ****ty tires right now too.

I need to get some BFG A/T KO's 31X10.5 now though, I put a good sized hole in the side wall of the front left goodyear the other day. So good excuse to upgrade!

 

[410Fortune]

yes AWD is great for traction, however gears are required for climbing.....

a low range AWD system would kick ass
or you can just lock front and rear axles and have true 4wd

I did not like the KO's, but I am super picky and the old BFG AT's kicked ass, they made them softer and screwed them up.

 

[97BlackX5.0]

yeah basically for all around driving and occasionally going offroad the awd is awesome... i have missed the low range on a few occasions though.... if you bury it in the sand it doesnt have the gearing to spin them.....on the plus side theres no shift motors or electrical stuff to wear out in the transfer case as the whole system is mechanical....

 

[F14CRAZY]

Although your question has been well answered, 4x4 has a switch, so you can choose whether it's on or not. Some vehicles have an "auto" position instead of off though these days. The auto position would basically make it awd.