Off roading awd 4x4 questions.

[ExPlOrErImPoRtS]

I have 2002 ford explorer limited v8 awd 4x4.

Went off Roading into some muddy wet ruts. when left drivers wheel went into a hole and was just in air not touching ground. all other three tires were on ground. when trying to back out would only spin tire that was in the hole and back passenger tire. back passenger tire would spin also. With 4x4 low,high, auto nothing helped. The two tires that did have traction were not moving.

Does only one wheel per axle turn?

So if the two wheels that spin in mud that power each axle get no traction. it wont go anywhere.

 

[2Trux]

That is the downfall with having open differentials. The only way to be sure all your tires will turn when you need them is to install lockers. I know there are several people on the forum that have done this.
Take a look at this thread: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=318076

 

[ExPlOrErImPoRtS]

thank you sir!