Front Diffy for 4x4 Only?

[Chew_12]

I was wondering if the front differential is only in use when you are in a 4x4 mode. The reason i am asking is that my front differental has a big leak on it and right now and i dont have the money to fix it. So when i am driving in 2X4 does it use the front diffy? And will it ruin the front diffy it i am driving around with no fluid in 2x4?
Thanks in Advanced

 

[Alec]

I believe on your 93 the front diff is stationary with the hubs unlocked and the tcase in 2hi. However, with normal driving the parts should still be lubricated because they can move small amounts on their own and could still get damaged if they're dry.

 

[VBVA]

Alec is right, while the CV boots are constantly turning, the axle is not engaged. The hubs do not lock until they have a force applied to them, i.e. the front axle engaging and turning. This occurs in both forward and reverse.

 

[Chew_12]

Ok Thanks, That is what i was thinking. The reason why i thought the diff might be engaged was because i saw a 2wd truck with a front diff. But maybe it was 4wd.

 

[96xplorer]

I have a prob. with my front diff. it is leaking from the overflow. When i checkd the diff fluid it was at ok level but smelt burnt up. Also it seems that the 4wd mechanism is locked in 4wd but is not indicating on dash

 

[Chew_12]

So its leaking from the Box shaped screw on your diffy? If it smelt burnt up then you can go ahead and change it. And also your saying that your transfer case is locked in 4wd?

 

[96xplorer]

its not leaking from the box shaped screw its leaking from the overflow/breather that hangs over the front axel under the radaitor. well any way i may be taking out the front diff. and putting in a gen.1 lightning motor and transmission

 

[Chew_12]

Ah, you can go ahead and post your problem on a new thread, you will get a lot smarter people looking at it, if your still having the problem.