whats the diff between AWD and 4x4 models??

[RockoT]

my title says 2003 xlt 4x4 but the manual says that auto 4x4 is always on and both axels are running at all times but pressing 4x4 high operates all wheel at all times.

Please help me understand.

would the 4x4high be like the equivilant of awd

 

[A1C_Snowman]

4x4 is not always on. It is active but not always on. Under normal acceleration your its RWD, that is until one tire start to slip then the transfer case comes into play, and transmits power to the front wheels.

This is what I've gathered by looking around. I may be wrong.
The difference between AWD and 4WD is mainly the fact that on 4wd you can switch to a Low range, and the fact that most 4wd, are really 4wd. they are really FWD and RWD at the same time. What I mean by that is, most 4wd front diff's are open meaning only one tire is going to be doing the pulling. So in essence it not truely 4wd. Where as AWD the power gets distibuted evenly between all 4 wheels. Hope this doesn't confuse you.