What do I have when the diffs aren't locked?

[dadkev]

Hello,
For a continuation on a previous question. I looked at a Bronco today and saw the diff locker switches on the dash. So I started thinking, if I just put the vehicle in 4H, what type of traction do I have? Is it open rear and open front? No LS or anything else until I lock the diffs?
Thanks.

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[CalvinT]

That's true, unless you use a G.O.A.T. mode to do it.

 

[Fordified1]

Hello,
For a continuation on a previous question. I looked at a Bronco today and saw the diff locker switches on the dash. So I started thinking, if I just put the vehicle in 4H, what type of traction do I have? Is it open rear and open front? No LS or anything else until I lock the diffs?
Thanks.

Open front and rear. There is no limited slip diff option. I wish the Broncos that don’t have a locker front or rear at least had a rear limited slip.

 

[kodiakisland]

It’s open, but you do have several computerized traction and stability control things going on. This is not 70s open diff.

drive a washboard gravel road with the stability control on and off and you really see how much it’s working without you knowing anything about it.

 

[bassist]

You have an open front and rear differential. The computers in the car will selectively brake each wheel as needed based upon the drive mode and sensor inputs, much like any other modern vehicle.

 

[WarthogJr]

You have the ability to tackle the most extreme curbs at any mall. As long as you have some momentum.

 

[UncleBrad]

You have an open front and rear differential. The computers in the car will selectively brake each wheel as needed based upon the drive mode and sensor inputs, much like any other modern vehicle.

Outside of what happens in traction control, it's my understanding that this is not true if you have a manual transmission or a lower configuration without 4A.

 

[5GENIDN]

Outside of what happens in traction control, it's my understanding that this is not true if you have a manual transmission or a lower configuration without 4A.

I think you will find 4A is simply differentiation within the transfer case. I think you will find that you still have "stabilisys" and "dynamic traction control" even without the 4A.... Should be the second button on the far right (next to the hazard flashers).... It is automatically on unless you turn it off..... but maybe I am wrong.... I thought everyone had that button no matter the options or the model. Most cars (even 2 wheel drive) have it these days. It is operated using the ABS system. It is possible the manual does not have it but that would surprise me.... and that is the "traction control".

 

[UncleBrad]

I think you will find 4A is simply differentiation within the transfer case. I think you will find that you still have "stabilisys" and "dynamic traction control" even without the 4A.... Should be the second button on the far right (next to the hazard flashers).... It is automatically on unless you turn it off..... but maybe I am wrong.... I thought everyone had that button no matter the options or the model. Most cars (even 2 wheel drive) have it these days. It is operated using the ABS system. It is possible the manual does not have it but that would surprise me.... and that is the "traction control".

Yes - that's why I said "outside of traction control" (ABS, which appears now in virtually every vehicle now, including manuals). The braking control I believe is being discussed here goes beyond ABS (ie: emulating AWD functionality, like torque vectoring). Since I don't have 4A, and owning the 2024 version of the base (the Big Bend) I have limited understanding of what all goes on when the automatic transmission, GOAT modes and 4A comes into play...

 

[5GENIDN]

Yes - that's why I said "outside of traction control" (ABS, which appears now in virtually every vehicle now, including manuals). The braking control I believe is being discussed here goes beyond ABS (ie: emulating AWD functionality, like torque vectoring). Since I don't have 4A, and owning the 2024 version of the base (the Big Bend) I have limited understanding of what all goes on when the automatic transmission, GOAT modes and 4A comes into play...

My apologies... I thought the description was of simple traction control.

'The computers in the car will selectively brake each wheel as needed based upon the drive mode and sensor inputs, much like any other modern vehicle'

You are right that you could interpret that to include torque vectoring.... My mind just simply went to traction control.

 

[crzyhawk]

I think you will find 4A is simply differentiation within the transfer case. I think you will find that you still have "stabilisys" and "dynamic traction control" even without the 4A.... Should be the second button on the far right (next to the hazard flashers).... It is automatically on unless you turn it off..... but maybe I am wrong.... I thought everyone had that button no matter the options or the model. Most cars (even 2 wheel drive) have it these days. It is operated using the ABS system. It is possible the manual does not have it but that would surprise me.... and that is the "traction control".

I have a pretty low end Bronco, 24 Big Bend with a manual, no 4A. I have two hero switches: Traction control and Hazard lights. Autos have those, plus turn assist. You're definitely not wrong; everyone has traction control.

 

[Brian_B]

Outside of what happens in traction control, it's my understanding that this is not true if you have a manual transmission or a lower configuration without 4A.

It’s generally not true for all models

Technically, yes, ABS has that capability. But AdvanceTrac is really only set up for emergencies, like when it detects you are fishtailing, and isn’t tuned for normal driving or off road events. Or worse yet, when you absolutely don’t want it - like trying to keep up momentum in snow or mud.

You can tell when it kicks in, it’s very noisy and clunky in the Bronco (and the AdvanceTrac light will flash)

I have heard that one pedal trail control and/or trail cruise control can use it to help maintain traction, but I can’t confirm it.

Other than turning it off in some modes, GOAT doesn’t really affect AdvanceTrac. There was a good opportunity there that Ford kinda squandered

 

[Brian_B]

ie: emulating AWD functionality, like torque vectoring).

None of the Big broncos have this - just the Bronco Sport.

4A can vary the torque to the front end, but it can’t differentiate between wheels like AWD

 

[UncleBrad]

None of the Big broncos have this - just the Bronco Sport.

4A can vary the torque to the front end, but it can’t differentiate between wheels like AWD

Thanks for the clarification!

 

[OverBudget]

Outside of what happens in traction control, it's my understanding that this is not true if you have a manual transmission or a lower configuration without 4A.

torque vectoring works with manual transmissions as well. heck my ford fiesta st has torque vectoring.

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