How to tell AWD from 2WD??

[VairKing]

Hey gang:
I will probably be getting a 96+ AWD V8 X here in the next couple weeks, and was wondering how to tell the AWDs from the 2WDs without crawling underneith. Other than badging are there any obvious differences? TIA...

 

[Alec]

If you know what to look for you can look for the front diff and axles, and driveshaft without really crawling under there.

 

[jimbo74]

yeah, i can dee my front axle (although ttb) without crawling under, just by standing in front of it....

look for AWD on the truck.... or Control Trac on the hatch under Explorer

 

[Morgan97Ltd]

find a foot of snow and try and get somewhere in it

 

[section525]

On some, the little black "V8" badge has a silver stipe underneath where it says "AWD". Both on the fenders and the hatch. Otherwise, looking for half shafts would be the next easiest route.

 

[justin146]

96-97 awd V8 Eddie Bauers have 15" wheels while all others have 16". Other than that, you pretty much have to look underneath.