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Basics of 4x4


The Basics

 

 

Rock-Trac®
The Rock-Trac transfer case has a low-gear ratio. 4:1. This low speed enables the vehicle to ascend or descend sharp inclines and to crawl over obstacles. The Rock-Trac also features a fixed-yoke output, which is usually only available as an after-market option. The Rock-Trac is fully covered by the manufacturer's warranty.

 

Available on: Wrangler Rubicon and Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon.

 

 

Command-Trac I®
The Command-Trac is a part time system that allows you to shift on the fly.  It has a 2.72:1 low range and neutral capability.

 

Available on: Wrangler X, Sahara, Wrangler Unlimited X, and Unlimited Sahara
 

 


Command-Trac II®
The Command-Trac II® supports the new MP 1522 two speed part time four wheel drive transfer case. It allows for smooth operation, shift on the fly capability and improved NVH control. In 2WD High drive the front driveline is disengaged and power is directed to the rear wheels. Choosing 4WD lock on the electronic, console-mounted switch will lock the front and rear driveshafts together. The two can then rotate at the same speed and provide a 50 front/50 rear torque split. This means better traction on slippery surfaces.

 

Available on: Liberty Sport and Sport Limited

 

 

Selec-Trac II®
The Selec-Trac II optimizes traction by allowing the transfer case clutch to detect wheel slips and applying increased or decreased torque between the front and rear axles. Under the right conditions, the vehicle can be driven with just one wheel. The transfer case also includes a low 4WD mode. This mode provides added capability when traversing steep grades, rough terrain, or extremely poor traction surfaces.

 

Available on: Liberty Sport (optional) and Limited Sport (optional)
 

 

 


Quadra-Drive II®
Quadra-Drive II is an active full time 4WD system that is perfect for almost any driving situation. It provides excellent traction performance through the Quadra-Trac transfer case and Electronic Limited Slip Differentials in both axles.

 

Available on: Commander Sport (optional), Limited (optional), Overland, Grand Cherokee Laredo (optional), Limited (optional), Overland

 

 

Quadra-Trac I®
Quadra-Trac I operates in a high-range, all time mode providing optimum traction in almost any driving situation with no driver input required. The Grand Cherokee SRT8 uses the on-demand system that drives the rear driveshaft and engages the front driveshaft when needed either when a slip is detected or with throttle anticipate which engages the front prior to slip when throttle is applied.

 

Available on: Commander Sport and Grand Cherokee Laredo

 

 

Quadra-Trac II®
This active full-time system functions in all-wheel-drive until additional traction is needed, then reacts by electronically engaging the clutch pack to transfer up to 100% of the torque to either axle. This system also features 2.72:1 low range and neutral.

 

Available on: Commander Sport (optional), Limited, Grand Cherokee Laredo (optional), and Limited
 

 

 


Freedom-Drive I®
Jeep® Compass models cones with a 5-speed manual transaxle or continuously variable transmission feature selectable four-wheel-drive lock. This state-of-the-art electronic system anticipates the need for added traction and responds to wheel-slippage by transferring power to the rear wheels, while modulating rear-wheel to contribute to vehicle stability in cornering situations. The system also saves fuel by operating only on demand when on-road, thereby minimizing power-robbing friction and inertia.

 

Available on: Patriot Sport (optional), Limited (optional), Compass Sport, and Limited

 

 

Freedom-Drive II®
An electronically controlled coupling, which is attached to the rear differential, is the heart of the Freedom Drive II system. The electronic control module processes signals from the wheel speed sensors and the accelerator pedal to determine how much torque to transfer to the rear wheels, it then sends an electrical current to the ECC that is proportional to the amount of torque required. Recommended for true off-road situations including steep grades, wheel lift and rock or log climbing, the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package includes a second-generation continuously variable transaxle with a 19:1 crawl ratio (CVT2L) that engages when the off-road mode is activated.

 

Available on: Patriot Sport (optional), and Limited (optional) 

 

 

Command Track Selec Track Quadra Trac

 

 

Off-Road Driving Guide

Here?s some good information to know before you hit the off-road in your Jeep vehicle. Even if you don?t own a Jeep yet, just understanding the basics will take you a long way.

 

Be Prepared
Before going off-road always check your vehicle. Make sure your battery is fastened, all your fluids are topped off, your hoses are in good condition, and you have a full tank of fuel. Check your tires to make sure they are in good condition and have proper tire pressure. Be sure to travel with a companion especially when in unfamiliar territory.
 

 

 


Be on the Lookout
Once you're off-road make sure to have your vehicle in 4WD whenever you anticipate a situation that will demand the additional traction. Be sure to look in all directions when on a trail. Check over your hood as well as to your left and right. Make sure you are keeping an eye on both wheels. If you just focus on the left tire, there?s a good chance you?ll get the right tire in trouble. It's also recommended to
 
keep your thumbs out of the way of the steering wheel spokes. For example, if your tire suddenly falls off a rock your steering wheel could quickly rotate and catch your thumb with a spoke.

 


Take It Easy
You don?t need speed and power in rough off-road driving. Low gearing and low speed at idle will generally pull you over most obstacles. In most cases, with manual transmissions, releasing the clutch slowly and allowing the vehicle to crawl over obstacles in the lowest gear is the best scenario. The average speed is a mere 3-5 miles per hour.
 

 


Snow and Mud
Generally, when snow or mud is present on the driving surface, it is the right time to engage your on-demand or part-time 4WD system. If you have an all-time system like Quadra-Trac I®, there is no input required from you. In heavy snow, when pulling a load, or for additional control at slower speeds, shift the transmission to a low gear
 
and shift the transfer case to 4-LO if necessary (Quadra-Trac I does not offer a low range). Don't shift to a lower gear than necessary to maintain momentum. Over-revving the engine can spin the wheels and traction will be lost. If you begin to lose traction in snow or mud, turn your steering wheel back and forth rapidly. This will generally help the wheels bite into fresh terrain and pull you through. If traction is lost, STOP. Wheel spinning will just dig you in deeper. The key is to maintain forward momentum.

 

 

Sand
A good idea for maintaining traction in sand is to drop the air pressure 10-12 pounds below normal on conventional tires. (Return to normal pressures after use in these conditions). Try high range 4WD to maintain forward momentum. Be sure to make wider turns if possible. Tighter turns may end up slowing the vehicle down too much and increases your chances of getting stuck. Depending on the condition of the sand you may need to use low range 4WD and alternate gear selections.

 

 

Hills
When climbing hills ALWAYS go straight up or down. It's also smart to know what's on the other side before going up. At the base of the hill you should apply more power. Ease up on the power as you approach the top and before going over the crest. If you stall on the ascent, back straight down the hill in reverse. For downhill travel, always use the lowest gear with a manual transmission. When descending a hill in low-range, do not disengage the clutch and allow the vehicle to coast. Severe damage to your clutch disc may result. Allow the gears and engine compression to slow you down, using the brakes only to fine-tune your speed. If equipped with an automatic transmission, use low-range and the lowest drive setting. NOTE: NEVER drive a hill at an angle. If the hill is very steep and you don't feel confident that you or your vehicle can make it up, then don't attempt it.

 

 

Rock Crawling
It?s called "crawling" for a reason. Use a low gear and low-range 4WD and just let the vehicle crawl and idle (with as little throttle as needed) when going over obstacles like rocks or logs. Never straddle rocks. A vehicle with 10 inches of ground clearance will not go over a 12-inch rock! Maneuver the tire on top of the rocks and crawl over them slowly. If you hear scraping, don't panic. Your Jeep® vehicle's skid plates and rock
 
rails (this equipment varies depending on what Jeep® vehicle and packages have been purchased or leased) will take the brunt of the beating. Dropping tire pressure 3-5 pounds improves traction and helps avoid tire punctures. (Return to normal pressure after use in these conditions). Remember, the ideal speed for rock crawling is 1-3 miles per hour.

 

 

Tread Lightly
Leave it better than you found it. Observe posted signs and stay on trails and recreation areas approved for off-roading. Use your good judgment in protecting the beauty and solitude of the area. Don't leave anything behind and, better yet, pick up and remove any trash that others have discarded. If the terrain looks especially fragile, take an alternate route.