Four Wheel Drive Parts – What Are The Different Components Involved In The Assembly?

Four wheel drives are powerful systems that give the driver enhanced control over the drive. Essentially, four wheel drive is a vehicle in which all the four wheels receive torque from the engine. In two wheel drives, only the front wheels receive torque. Given below is an overview of the main components involved in four wheel drives.

Differentials

Differentials are very important parts of four wheel drives. These are components that supply just the right amount of torque to wheels such that each wheel rotates at different paces. This is important because when you traverse a curve, the wheel towards the inside of the curve needs to rotate faster than the wheel at the outer end. The differential absorbs the difference in speeds and enables the vehicle to stay in one constant direction. There are two differentials present in four wheel drives, one between the front wheels and one between the back wheels. Differential plays a very important role in ensuring that the vehicle has strong traction.

Transfer case

Transfer case is the component that divides the torque and power between the front and back axles. This system gives better control to the vehicle when you traverse uneven surfaces. If your vehicle is a part time four wheel drive, a special set of gears is provided in order to enable low range in the vehicle. When equipped with this system, the vehicle receives extra torque. This sort of a provision is very useful in vehicles that need to constantly climb steep hills. Without the presence of the extra set of gears, the vehicle could slip when climbing grounds with a high gradient.

Locking hubs

Locking hubs are provided for individual wheels in part time four wheel drives. When you don't drive your vehicle in four wheel mode, the locking hubs disconnect the front and rear differentials. This way, you can save fuel because parts such as driveshaft, differentials and half shafts cease to spin. Another advantage of locking hubs is that they reduce wearing and tearing of important vehicle parts.

Some of the other useful components in four wheel drives are high efficiency shocks, air intake systems, high performance brakes and tires. You could also invest in a lift kit.

Components of four wheel drives are specific to the brands, makes and models of vehicles. So, before you buy these parts, you need to make sure that the parts are compatible with your vehicle.

Buying parts online

Today, the easiest way to buy parts of four wheel drives is to shop online. With myriad choices available in these components, you are sure to find parts that you are looking for. However, before you buy, make sure that the seller is an authorized dealer of the parts. This way, you can be assured about the authenticity of components. Another advantage of shopping online is that you get genuine parts at lower rates.

If you are unsure about the components, you can either ask your car mechanic or call the customer service of the online vehicle component store.

Before purchasing 4WD accessories you must first make sure that they are compatible with your vehicle and that you are buying them from an authorized dealer. Ultimate 4WD is providing a wide range of four wheel drive accessories in Western Australia.