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4WD is poorly defined, and the NPS shouldn't be using it, especially by trying to classify an AWD system as something of lesser capability. The SAE even recomm
by thrill 2y ago
4WD is poorly defined, and the NPS shouldn't be using it, especially by trying to classify an AWD system as something of lesser capability. The SAE even recommends using the term AWD along with 8 different subclasses, none of which use the term 4WD. Jalopnik can hand-wave all they want about what the NPS "means" but the definition should be from a recognized standard if legal action is going to be taken.
- guax 2y agoI'm lost that people keep discussing the terms in terms of vague capabilities (not suitable for low speed muddy, etc) and not focusing on the actual mechanical difference. Is it the locking differentials or not? Is that the only distinction that matters in this case? I have no clue. Would a AWD not have it by definition? Do all 4wd have it?
- Gibbon1 2y agoReally you want five things if you're doing hard off road. 1. Locking differentials so all 4 tires spin in sync. 2. Extra low gears so you can crawl at a walking pace or less. 3. Clearance so you don't high side. 4. Strong suspension that won't get beat to death. 5. Tires that can take the abuse. Typical AWD's don't have 1, 2 and 4. Lack of #1 means if one tire spins you lose traction. Lack of #2 in a manual transmission means you burn out your clutch. Lack of #4 means breakdowns and helping the guy that owns your auto shop put his kid through college. You can lift AWD and put good tires on them. Tip I've heard from people that live in places like rural Nevada having a 4WD gives you the opportunity to get stuck farther in.
- aeonik 2y agoLocking differentials are overrated. Computer controlled drive trains with single wheel breaking can achieve all of the same capability for less weight and money. The fact that a Subaru got cited in the article is ridiculous. This vehicle is far more capable than even some cheaper 4 wheel drive systems.
- motohagiography 2y ago> 4WD gives you the opportunity to get stuck farther in. Fine advice I was given as a new jeep owner was, 2WD to get in, 4WD to get out. I don't have lockers, but 4lo has been sufficient for farm mud and snow so far. what I have learned is the desire for a jeep is better served by a pickup and an atv. I am happy with the JK and will keep it, but the actual communities for most rural activities use one or the other, where the jeep is a compromise that means relatively mediocre utility and offroad capability in comparison. It's the absolute best convertible 6cyl stick runabout dog carrier with a short wheelbase and gardening-trailer hitch for weekenders that is just constant fun, and I will maintain mine for another decade if I can, but rurally and for the money, get a used truck, atv, and maybe a dirt bike instead.
- Gibbon1 2y agoFriend of mine lives in rural Nevada and occasionally has to work on a radio repeater on a local mountain. He takes the ATV up and back.