Community Forums

SteveFortune · 09-16-2015, 08:50 PM

With a 4x4 ram 3500 dually..... do you "ever" use all 4 wheels to tow... if so, when is it used????

Gordon Dewald · 09-16-2015, 09:02 PM

We have used 4 wheel drive but only when needed. We have encountered a snow storm where we were unable to get going from a parking spot. Used 4 wheel to get moving and then shifted into 2.

Some also claim they use 4 low while parking their units as there is more power and it is slower enabling them to have more control with the accelerator. This would be especially good if used when trying to park when it is wet or conditions are less than optimal.

Using 4 wheel on dry hard surfaces will not be good for the driveline.

Cummins12V98 · 09-17-2015, 04:37 AM

Backing onto blocking to level rig with 4 low is very nice!

Wild Card · 09-17-2015, 07:36 AM

Depends on where ya go. I use 4wd alot...of course I prolly take my toyhauler to places most round here would have a heart attack at the thought.

I think with a dually more than not on wet grass and loose gravel...I will let you know after this weekend. Will be going atv in and have to pull my rig across a sand pit to get to camping site. Test out the new Ram and see what she be made of...

Tony Lee · 09-17-2015, 07:40 AM

Always use low range to drive onto leveling blocks, but with front hubs unlocked. It is an auto transmission so no real danger of over-torquing rear axles.

Also use high range 4WD with hubs locked when on loose gravel roads as it is more stable.

timetogo · 09-17-2015, 07:55 AM

I use it when I need or want extra traction, ideally before the rear tires spin.

JohnBoyToo · 09-17-2015, 07:59 AM

a caveat,
on SOME 4x4's (mostly with dash engagement switches) you have to be IN 4x4 before you need it as they will not 'lock' without some movement...

Gordon Dewald · 09-17-2015, 08:31 AM

I made the mistake of ordering our truck with ribbed tires. They are pitiful on snow and wet grass so 4 wheel makes up the difference. The tires are due for replacement and will be replaced with a more agressive tread.

buddaman · 09-26-2015, 10:41 AM

My land rover is in full 4x4 mode all the time and it tows like a dream.

timetogo · 09-26-2015, 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by buddaman

My land rover is in full 4x4 mode all the time and it tows like a dream.

Good to know, so does my Highlander.

Army Nurse · 11-15-2015, 10:09 PM

I've had this truck since April of this year (so maybe 7 months), and 4x4 low range has come in handy a time or two. Once in Grand Coulee, WA where we encountered a very steep gravel road leading into the campground. It wasn't a problem coming in, but going out with 14k in tow was another story. The second time was at a campground on Lake Barkley in KY. Same thing, steep gravel road at the entrance. Both times I was thankful for the option.

IronCobra · 11-16-2015, 07:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wild Card

Depends on where ya go. I use 4wd alot...of course I prolly take my toyhauler to places most round here would have a heart attack at the thought.

I think with a dually more than not on wet grass and loose gravel...I will let you know after this weekend. Will be going atv in and have to pull my rig across a sand pit to get to camping site. Test out the new Ram and see what she be made of...

Bingo, pulling on and off of wet grass and mud is the key for me to switch on 4wd.

1bigmess · 11-16-2015, 07:51 AM

I used 4WD last night to get to Yosemite Valley. Chains on the truck and trailer, snow falling, and without 4WD the front end drifted around a bit. I appreciated the extra grip.

tuffr2 · 11-16-2015, 10:22 AM

I have needed additional traction pulling a trailer up an incline during a snow squall. Now if you would have asked me if I would ever tow a trailer in a snow storm I would have laughed and said 'no way'. But just goes to show you ...you just never know.