4×4 transfer cases are a part of your differential assembly that allows your truck to go into four-wheel drive while driving on paved roads. It also disengages it when needed. There are many variations in terms of design and functionality, but they all have some similarities – which are highlighted below. If you are looking for more information on the different types of transfer cases, this article is for you.
At a basic level, 4×4 transfer cases are not that complex. Transfer cases refer to any device attached to a four-wheel drive system and help with power distribution. Mounted at the tail end of the transmission, the rotational power coming out of the transmission goes out to the case. Inside this box is a set of gears that distribute power to where it needs to go, whether to one axle or two.
Most transfer cases operate in either two-wheel drive mode or four-wheel drive with high range and low range modes; some can work all by themselves without input from any humans, while others require manual locking/unlocking levers.
When working on a transfer case, it’s always important to be very careful with the fluid levels and ensure to not overfill them. In most transfer cases, there will be an opening on the side where oil goes into the device for lubrication purposes. This opening can also fill up like a regular transmission does, but you might need a special tool called a funnel just so you don’t spill too much fluid all at once inside your vehicle.
The transfer case is engaged when it’s working as part of your four-wheel-drive system, sending power from the engine through two different parts of your transmission before splitting again into all four wheels.
It allows you to go at low speeds in rugged terrain without having to stop every few feet for a shift change, especially if you have an automatic transmission with manual modes like “Low.” This also means no more one-footed driving for those of us with a manual transmission. Singletrack trail riders often use this feature because they don’t want their legs burned out by constantly shifting back and forth between high range (for cruising speed) and low range (for easier crawling).
The transfer case disengages when you’re in two-wheel drive mode and is no longer necessary. This can be done by simply flipping a switch on the dashboard or floor of your vehicle, depending on the make and model. Some vehicles will automatically engage four-wheel drive when sensors detect that one axle has lost traction. In contrast, others require the driver to select a four-wheel drive via a switch manually.
Two-speed transfer cases are used to improve off-road capabilities or fuel economy. Two-speed transfer cases are typically engaged by pulling a lever mounted on the floor, dashboard, or between the seats. A two-speed gearbox is used in conjunction with an additional set of low and high gearing ranges, which can be selected when desired by using separate levers mounted next to each other on the gear selector/shifter assembly.
Two-speed transfer cases engage both gears simultaneously unless shifted into “Low range” mode, meaning one will have higher speeds than the other. You’ll want more torque at different RPMs’s so having Low Range wouldn’t help as much. Still, there may not be an optimal power band for specific driving conditions such as snow/ice, where lower speeds would work better while rock crawling.
The two-speed transfer case will use a single low gear ratio to provide more torque and better crawl speed when in Low Range mode. This is especially beneficial when ascending or descending steep grades. Besides, to prevent damage, most two-speed transfer cases have a locking mechanism that must be engaged before entering the Low Range mode.
All-wheel drive transfer cases provide power to all four wheels at once. This can increase traction in low-traction conditions such as mud, sand, and snow. Unlike a part-time system that requires the driver to shift into an off-road gear or engage a differential lock switch on some models, AWD systems are typically always active when engaged, even while driving on dry pavement.
An all-wheel-drive transfer case is an excellent option for those who frequently drive in slippery conditions or off-road and need the extra traction that all four wheels provide. While they add weight and cost to the vehicle, they can be a lifesaver in rugged terrain or bad weather.
The transfer cases we’ve looked at are just a few of the many options on the market. The one you choose will depend on your specific needs and driving style. Be sure to do your research and talk to an expert before deciding.
No matter what transfer case you choose, it’s essential to understand how it works and its benefits. You can make the most of your off-road vehicle and enjoy some severe adventure with the proper knowledge.
Advance Adapters sells a large assortment of transfer cases and accessories to go off-roading. But if you’re new to customizing an SUV or truck, you might be wondering what a transfer case is and why you need one for your vehicle. In this guide to transfer cases, we’re looking at how they work and the importance of installing one. Whether you prefer exploring trails, jumping dunes or crawling over rocks, we’ll help you get the best performance.
How a Transfer Case Works
As part of the vehicle’s drivetrain, a transfer case is a crucial component — not just in four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive rides, but just about every vehicle. It’s what transfers engine power and torque from the transmission to the driveshafts. In turn, the driveshafts carry that power to the axles. A transfer case also coordinates the front and rear axle rotation to keep it uniform and reduce the chances of wheel spin.
In some ways, transfer cases function much like differentials. The difference is that the transfer case sends power to the entire axle(s) while a differential sends power to two different wheels on the same axle. It is common for modern off-road vehicles to have both a transfer case and differentials to control torque.
Off-Road Transfer Cases
When choosing a transfer case, you’ll often have a choice between a chain-driven or gear-driven case. Most modern transfer cases are chain-driven because they are quieter and lighter. Although this is typically fine for everyday driving, many off-roaders still prefer the older gear-driven transfer case design. They can handle more torque and won’t stretch like chains sometimes do.
In addition to the drive design, the transfer case for an off-road vehicle can have many other configurations. Some four-wheel-drive transfer cases can lock the front and rear driveshafts to make sure the torque for both is equal. You may also have the option to purchase a multi-speed transfer case. These let you change to a lower gear ratio so you have extra torque when climbing mountains or pulling trailers.
A transfer case can have a married or divorced/independent housing. Married transfer cases are directly bolted to the transmission and are sometimes even in the same housing. Independent transfer cases are further down the driveline and have their own driveshaft to connect to the transmission. This arrangement is common for long-wheelbase vehicles; it also makes swapping engines and transmissions easier in a modified 4x4 vehicle without altering the 4WD setup.
Finally, if you have an on-the-fly transfer case that can switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive, there is the choice of a manual shift or electronic shift selector.
Get the Best Transfer Case
If you want to upgrade or replace the transfer case on your vehicle, Advance Adapters has a solution. We sell heavy-duty Atlas transfer cases and Orion transfer cases along with parts, accessories and gearing options. Use our search options to find a transfer case that is a perfect match for your vehicle transmission and engine package.