Awd Vs 4Wd

[glennL]

Would any of you be able to tell me if there is a difference between AWD and 4WD? I usually park my trailer in the water, on the pebble shores of Table Rock. Will the AWD work? The 4WD in low, results in no spinning or digging in of the tires. Will AWD be a problem with spinning tires. Thanks

[exiledguide]

WHAT?

[glennL]

Reason I am asking, is that I am about to replace my 4 wheel drive pickup and some dealers say the all wheel drive will work the same as the 4wd. Others have stated that the All wheel drive will not allow me to pull the boat on the beach. Has anyone else had any experience with the All wheel drive pulling the boat on the shore?

[jdmidwest]

It is my understanding that AWD is the best traction alternative, all wheels pulling the same. Unless they have a limited slip differential.

Most 4WD still have a limited slip differential in the rear unless they are positrac. My 4 Runner will turn all 4 at the same time, a very positive traction control. Alot of 4WD trucks have to spin a tire before the other picks up the slack on an axle in the rear.

[Justin Spencer]

Awd subaru has pulled boats off gravel bars no problem.

[glennL]

Thanks for all the advise.

[denjac]

Our little Nisson is awd. It has a button to push to lock it in.

[jeb]

I also launch my boat on a gravel area here on Beaver Lake. I only need 2wd to pull it out 99.9% of the time. But AWD and 4WD will both work fine, if needed. Most AWD systems lock the other axle in when they detect slip from the main drive wheels. You will likely never notice it as the system reacts very quickly.