How to put dodge ram 1500 in 4 wheel drive

Before getting into the steps, it’s important to understand what 4-wheel drive is and how it enhances your Dodge Ram 1500’s performance, especially in challenging terrains. 4-wheel drive (4WD) distributes power to all four wheels of your vehicle, providing better traction and control in situations such as snow, mud, or rough off-road conditions.

Knowing how to put dodge ram 1500 in 4 wheel drive allows you to use the system to its full capacity, meaning your truck is able to drive on slippery roads or rough grounds effortlessly. Proper activation of 4WD increases stability and prevents slippage of the wheels, hence making your ride safer and more reliable.

2. 4-Wheel Drive Systems Available in Dodge Ram 1500

The Dodge Ram 1500 has various forms of 4-wheel drive systems, including part-time, full-time, and automatic, and an awareness of what type your truck has will aid in engaging 4WD correctly. Part-time 4WD is featured on older vehicles or certain trim levels, where the driver specifically engages and disengages 4WD according to need. Full-time 4WD, on the other hand, drives all four wheels at all times, providing you with greater traction on dry roads, as well.

Automatic 4WD systems engage and disengage automatically as required and even shift automatically based on road conditions. Familiarity with your system will help you optimize performance for various terrain.

3. Preparing Your Dodge Ram 1500 for 4-Wheel Drive

Before switching your Dodge Ram 1500 into 4-wheel drive, it’s important to ensure that your vehicle is on a flat, stable surface and that you’re driving at a low speed. Engaging 4WD at higher speeds or on rough, uneven surfaces can damage the drivetrain. Shift into neutral before activating 4WD to prevent strain on the transmission.

Ensure the tires are properly inflated and nothing heavy is in your vehicle, as this will weigh on the system’s efficiency.

By following these easy steps, you can guarantee a more and safer switch to 4-wheel drive mode.

4. Engaging 4-Wheel Drive on Your Dodge Ram 1500

Engaging 4-wheel drive on the Dodge Ram 1500 is easy, but it’s essential to engage it correctly to avoid damaging the system. Start by bringing the truck to a stop and shifting the transmission into neutral. If your truck has a part-time system, rotate the 4WD selector dial or lever into the 4H (4 high) position.

For automatic or full-time systems, merely turn the dial to 4WD. Once the system is engaged, gradually pick up speed to lock the wheels in place properly. Always ensure that the 4WD indicator light is illuminated, which is an indication that the system is active.

5. Turning off 4-Wheel Drive on Your Dodge Ram 1500

When you no longer need 4-wheel drive, turning the system off is just as important, and needs to be done with care in order to enable operation the next time you need it.

To turn off, slow to a stop and shift the truck into neutral. Turn the 4WD selector dial or lever to 2H (2 high). On autos with an automatic system, simply turn the 2WD on.

Let the drivetrain fully disengage, then shift into drive again. Do not drop 4WD in turn or high speed as it can lead to transfer case damage.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using 4-Wheel Drive

Incorrect use of 4-wheel drive can damage your Dodge Ram 1500, so a few mistakes to watch out for are outlined below to ensure that your car is in the best condition.

To begin with, never employ 4WD on firm, paved roads, since it unnecessarily wears out the drivetrain and tires. The second mistake is to keep the truck in 4WD for a long period when it is not necessary, leading to poorer fuel economy.

Never employ 4WD during high-speed driving or hard acceleration, which can ruin the transfer case. Lastly, always ensure the system is properly disengaged when you’re back on dry, smooth roads.

7. When to Use 4-Wheel Drive on Your Dodge Ram 1500

Knowing how to engage 4-wheel drive will greatly improve the performance of your vehicle, so let us go through the optimum conditions for engaging 4WD. You should engage 4WD on loose or slippery surfaces like snow, ice, sand, or gravel.

It is also beneficial when driving up or down steep slopes, off-road trails, or in mud. Still, 4WD is not required when traveling on dry, paved surfaces, as it can lower fuel economy and add wear to your truck.

Engaging 4WD only in the case of need will provide improved performance and contribute to the longevity of your truck’s drivetrain system.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to disengage and engage 4-wheel drive, you can enhance the performance of Dodge Ram 1500 and make driving smoother off or on the road.

Operating 4WD appropriately increases traction in challenging conditions, enabling you to plow through snow, mud, and rocky ground with ease. Always engage and disengage the system properly, avoid traps, and know when to operate 4WD for best performance. This will lead to a smoother, more secure ride and increase your truck’s off-road capability.