Ok in a few very specific instances (like going down a long grade) 4wd and downshifting will help with braking. Since it self modulates all 4 tires vs. the brakes which always have a little bit of bias. Still when it really matters and you need to panic stop 4wd WILL NOT help you. Just as long as everybody remembers that ...



Yes exactly except for the part that I bolded, 4wd is MUCH better at steering both in keeping the vehicle under control and regaining control in a slide. Nothing beats having power to steering wheels in a slide, just point the direction you want to go and apply a little throttle.

 

well, i would agree with you on the sliding part, but not on the helping you steer part....your fronts are much more likely to lose traction having power to them when making a turn, it's happend to me many times.

 

Okay after reading that then i realize we are talking about different things, and there are actually 4 different kinds, becasue these drive flange things are essentially permanent hubs, but don't have ADD so the whole mess turns all the time...thanks for clearing it up, and sorry i didn't research that further before posting

 

I tell my wife, if in doubt, use 4wd on the highway even if only patchy ice - I would rather replace parts than loose her! (I have driven 5 toys like this for over 20 years and have not had one problem 60+ in 4WD). Also, half axles are only $140 ea for first gens - rollovers/medical bills cost much more.