Got a 2004 RAM 1500 Hemi truck.
I am trying to figure out what the difference is between the AWD & 4WD.
Should I even bother with 4WD? It's snowing in KC.

 

Leave it in AWD.
Let your computer save you the wear on your tranny.

 

There is no computer so that isn't going to save your tranny, it's a Mechanical AWD system. I've never known a 4WD system to wreak havoc on the tranny, because the Transfer Case takes the abuse before it reaches the tranny.

It really depends on how bad the snow is, if it isn't bad then just leave it in AWD, if you have to drive through 6 inches of unplowed snow, then throw it into 4-Lock. AWD leaves the Transfer Case Unlocked so that power can shift back and forth between the front and rear differentials. 4-Lock, does what it says, it locks the Transfer case 50/50 and doesn't allow the power to shift back and forth between the differentials.

 

Uhh did they have AWD on the 03's? I didn't think rams had AWD.

 

I don't know what year the transfer case went to an AWD setup, but I do believe it was in the 03s. In AWD the T-Case is at a split 40/60 F/R torque split, but it can be transferred either to the Front or Rear Diff. as needed to keep from breaking parts. It works similar to Jeep's Selec-Trac except without a 2wd position, there is AWD, 4-Lock, Neutral and 4-Low Lock.

 

My dads 03' Hemi has 2wd 4hi 4 lo. Thats not the AWD is it?

 

AWD was an option, first available in '04. AWD does not have 2wd as a selection, just AWD, 4hi, and 4lo.

 

Will it be available in the 06's?

 

Actually, I was told that the AWD on my 04 QC actually splits torque front and back and diagonally to opposing tires. So you would have Front left and Rear right under power or vis a versa. When I stomp on it in the snow it actually travels straight down the road at a slight angle. Pretty fun. Just can't do donuts in it. AND... It eats up 1 MPG according to the window sticker.

 

i think the AWD is only available with a laramie package....

I bought the Laramie H-package unaware it had AWD as well as 4WD.....when i took delivery i asked the dealer about it and he said only laramie models are available with AWD....


AWD is used for normal daily driving instead of 2WD.

however, I have yet to use 4HI or 4LO...and i have taken the truck in 6 inches of snow upstate and up some pretty decent hills with no problem at all.


When I take my truck to canada next month with my enclosed trailer/and snowmobiles (about 4,500 pounds total....I might need 4HI or 4LO if we hit heavy snow but im not sure yet...
I'll let you know if AWD does the trick in a foot of snow while pulling a 17' trailer.