Turn AWD into a "4x4"

[iceman33]

Would it be possible to control the AWD? In other words, since there is a solenoid that controls the power to the rear wheels, the possibility of installing a bypass switch that is user control should be possible.

 

However, would there be any damage to the rear differential and transfer case if they were engaged for a certain period of time?

 

If the answer is no, then you can turn the AWD into a "4x4" by simply flipping a switch..

[Splitpi]

no on both accounts.

 

The AWD drive system is considered "Open" differentials with Electronic Torsion Control [i.e. applying of brakes to wheel with traction loss, there by transferring torque to the non spinning wheel]. This is different than "Locking" differentials and "Limited Slip" differentials which are also different from each other.

 

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limited_slip_differential

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Locking_differential

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_differential

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transfer_case

[bbf2530]

Oooops! Accidental double post.

Edited November 21, 2008 by bbf2530

[bbf2530]

Would it be possible to control the AWD? In other words, since there is a solenoid that controls the power to the rear wheels, the possibility of installing a bypass switch that is user control should be possible.

 

However, would there be any damage to the rear differential and transfer case if they were engaged for a certain period of time?

 

If the answer is no, then you can turn the AWD into a "4x4" by simply flipping a switch..

 

Hi iceman. :D As Splitpi stated, the AWD system is not and can not be turned into a full time 4WD system. All that would be accomplished for the effort would be to eventually destroy the AWD system and void the powertrain warranty.

 

Good luck with your Edge. :beerchug:

Edited November 21, 2008 by bbf2530

[wwest]

Puzzled by the "no" answers...

 

Yes, you can turn you Edge into a traditional "part-time" 4WD system by simply applying a constant voltage to the rear driveline solenoid. You could even convert it to a much more safe RWD system (vs the current F/awd system) by dropping a front halfshaft at the same time.

 

Just be careful not to run in 4WD mode except on low traction surfaces otherwise driveline "windup" will shorten the life of the main components, PTU/PTO and rear clutch, significantly.