Pros and Cons of Four-Wheel Drive Auto in Ram 1500 Trucks

TLDRFour-wheel drive Auto in Ram 1500 trucks offers advantages in certain situations, such as snowy roads, but has some drawbacks, including a weaker off-road performance. The fifth-generation trucks have improved the clutch pack transfer case to provide better off-road capability. However, extended off-road use can lead to overheating and disengagement of the four-wheel drive system.

Key insights

🚙Four-wheel drive Auto is advantageous in snowy road conditions and situations where there is a mix of clear and snowy roads.

⚙️The fifth-generation Ram 1500 trucks have improved the clutch pack transfer case for better off-road performance.

🔥Extended off-road use can cause the clutch pack transfer case to overheat and disengage.

🌲For heavy off-road use, a true mechanically locking transfer case, like the BW 4812, is recommended.

❄️Four-wheel drive Auto is particularly advantageous in Canadian snowy conditions.

Q&A

What is the difference between the BW 4811 and BW 4812 transfer cases?

The BW 4811 is a clutch pack style transfer case with four-wheel drive Auto, while the BW 4812 is a true mechanically locking transfer case that splits power 50/50 to the front and rear wheels. The BW 4812 is recommended for heavy off-road use.

Can I turn off the electronic stability control (ESC) to improve off-road performance?

Yes, turning off the ESC system can improve off-road performance, as it sends more power to the front drive shaft. However, it is recommended to turn off ESC only in serious off-road conditions.

Is four-wheel drive Auto beneficial in snowy road conditions?

Yes, four-wheel drive Auto is advantageous in snowy road conditions, as it detects slippage and sends power to the front wheels, providing better traction and control.

What are the disadvantages of a clutch pack transfer case?

One major disadvantage of a clutch pack transfer case is the potential for overheating and disengagement during extended off-road use. The clutch packs can slip, causing loss of power to the front wheels.

Is four-wheel drive Auto suitable for heavy off-road use?

Four-wheel drive Auto is suitable for light off-road use, but for heavy off-road use, a true mechanically locking transfer case, such as the BW 4812, is recommended for better off-road performance and reliability.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the pros and cons of four-wheel drive Auto in Ram 1500 trucks.

04:47Demonstration of the improved off-road performance of the fifth-generation clutch pack transfer case.

09:28Explanation of the potential overheating and disengagement issues in the clutch pack transfer case.

11:29Advantages of four-wheel drive Auto in snowy road conditions and situations with a mix of clear and snowy roads.

12:53Comparison between the BW 4811 and BW 4812 transfer cases for off-road performance.