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I've been reading Feet, Fins and 4WD, and it keeps saying 4WD may be needed. I've never driven 4WD, I live in Annapolis, MD we don't need it. So how do you know when to use it while you are driving around STJ? Sorry this is a dumb question, but I'm confused. I feel like I need a friend be mt chauffeur to come drive me around STJ.
The vehicles that you rent have shift on the fly 4WD, so you just move the lever into 4wd when your tires are not gripping.
It is very easy.
DO NOT drive with it on all the time, it will damage the vehicle.
When you are approaching a steep switchback or wet hill, just move the lever and you will get great grip on the road, when you are past the issue, just return the lever back to 2wd.
thank you!! lol I feel better now!
i agree, you should always rent 4wd when visiting these islands, since they are hilly and sometimes you will appreciate the extra control during certain times like after a rain or on a rough patch.
i don't keep mine on all the time, because it really sounds like the car is working hard, and frankly i do not need it all the time. but, when i know that i will, i put the car in park, shift to 4wd, then take on my challenge... when done, i find a safe spot to shift to neutral, and put it back into 2wd.
I rarely turn on my 4wd here on St Croix when I'm on the main roads, hilly or not. Don't need it.
I do appreciate it when I go onto private hilly driveways and the occasional dirt road or remote beach access.
the new vehicles which I would think most are have a high 4, and a low 4, it really will not hurt to run in high 4 all the time, your gas mileage may suffer though.
Here in the fine state of Michigan, I have a vehicle that is 4 wheel drive all the time, it simply changes when need be to put more power to the front when needed.
But I do agree you really do not need it in 4 wheel all of the time, most of the time 2 wheel drive will get you where you want to be.
Unless it is an AWD (all wheel drive) it is suggested that it not be used in 4WD unless it is needed. AWD and full time 4WD's have a transfer case equipped to handle full time 4WD use.
