Driving in Auto 4WD

My 2005 Tahoe is doing the "jump from 2WD High to 4wd High" thing without selecting a change on the switch. Once it goes into 4wd, I can only get it to go into Auto 4wd. I can't make it go back into 2wd. From reading the related posts, it is either my selector switch or the encorder or maybe even the actuator. I am currently 1200 miles from my home and tools. Question: The truck will go into, and stay, in Auto 4wd. Can I drive extended distances in Auto 4wd on hard surface roads without inflicting damage to my transaxle?

You can drive in AUTO 4WD without a problem. All that does is monitor rear wheel speed. When the TCCM senses rear wheel slip, a motor inside the t/case rotates a shaft that applies a clutch pack to engage the front diff.

My 2005 Tahoe is doing the "jump from 2WD High to 4wd High" thing without selecting a change on the switch. Once it goes into 4wd, I can only get it to go into Auto 4wd. I can't make it go back into 2wd. From reading the related posts, it is either my selector switch or the encorder or maybe even the actuator. I am currently 1200 miles from my home and tools. Question: The truck will go into, and stay, in Auto 4wd. Can I drive extended distances in Auto 4wd on hard surface roads without inflicting damage to my transaxle?

Good afternoon louisherndon,

It is recommended to avoid driving on clean, dry pavement in four-wheel drive as doing so may cause premature wear on your vehicle’s powertrain. If I can help you find a dealership to have your vehicle looked at in the area you're at, please send me the ZIP code of your location (or you can check out http://www.chevrolet.com/tools/dealerlocator/search.do).
I hope this is helpful,
Sarah
GM Customer Service

Driving In AUTO 4WD, is not like driving in 4WD. GM Service Information states "During normal driving situations, the transfer case can operate in Auto 4wd mode."

My 2005 Tahoe is doing the "jump from 2WD High to 4wd High" thing without selecting a change on the switch. Once it goes into 4wd, I can only get it to go into Auto 4wd. I can't make it go back into 2wd. From reading the related posts, it is either my selector switch or the encorder or maybe even the actuator. I am currently 1200 miles from my home and tools. Question: The truck will go into, and stay, in Auto 4wd. Can I drive extended distances in Auto 4wd on hard surface roads without inflicting damage to my transaxle?

the 4wd is not to be used in any position on solid dry pavement.

the front axles are connected together as one axle in auto 4wd. this stresses out the front gear box. true the rear axle will not be connected to the front locked axles but, still the stress will be on the front gear box.

with tires rotated and wear at the same amount you may not have trouble.. if you get vibrations then you know its working too hard

this is from the gm book also I agree with this very much !

Thanks forum members. That's just the information I needed. I'll get my baby home and figure out what I need to fix her right up.