Whats the difference?

[93xltExplod]

in my 93 xlt theres a regular 4x4 button and a low range button which one is better for what kind of scenarios if im correct one of those is better for uphill stuff?

 

[outhouse]

If you have Auto leave it in that unless ground particularly loose (snow, sand etc.). This channels drive to the front wheels if and when needed.

I find that the delay in doing so can upset handling so I switch to 4x4 High (which can be done at speed) when I anticipate this is going to happen - making a sharp corner in the snow.

4x4 Low should only be used (from rest) in extreme circumstances as this engages the low ratio gearbox, slows everything down and (in theory) provides increased traction.

It is my understanding that High or Low should not be used on normal black top, hill or no hill, the differentials are not sophisticated enough to handle this.

Explorers are not permanent 4x4 vehicles.

 

[MrShorty]

A '93 has a pure part time 4WD system, so there is no "auto" setting.

Normal 2WD (2H) is for every day driving. Power is only sent to the rear wheels, and the front drivetrain is completely slack (assuming the hubs are unlocked).

4x4 or 4H is only to be used in low traction situations. Equal power is sent front/rear, and there is no means of differentiation in the transfer case (which is why it should only be used in low traction situations where the wheels can slip. If the wheels can't slip, something else gives, and that could mean breaking something).

Low range (4L) is like 4H, only you have the additional advantage of a significant gear reduction (something like 2.5:1). This is useful when you want to go slow, but still use the engine's full power.

 

[unclemeat]

4x4 high should be used in high speed low torque situations like snow or thin mud. 4x4 low should be used in low speed high torque situations, like sand, deep mud and hill climbing and desending. Low range give the mechanical advantage to the engine, where it belongs, and not to the driveline. When I am on the forest roads in the mountains or on the beach I only us 4x4 low.