1998 Bravada AWD question

Hey guys, I have my eye on a 98 Bravada for sale(its for my father), has 90k miles and seems to be in good condition. However before I seal the deal I have some concerns. One is the Smart-trak(sp?) AWD, I know nothing about the AWD other than the little research Ive done. I do realize its electronic control, but my question is if the AWD goes out for some reason(ie controller, front transfer case, etc) can you disconnect the ATC fuse or similiar to still run without AWD? My father does not need AWD and we dont really have any snow around here, so running w/out it wouldnt be an issue. I just want to make sure its possible to dissengage it electronically.

My other question is the shocks, on the test drive the Bravada seemed to jump around a bit at high speeds So I planned on putting new shocks at four corners, there's nothing kinky about these shocks are there?

Anything else I should really look for? I'd appreciate it guys, we are supposed to make a final decision by tomorrow.

Welcome to AF.
On the 4W or AWD we need to know for sure what transfer case you have.
Give us the no off of the tag on the back of it.
What kind if push buttons does it have on the dash?

Welcome to AF.
On the 4W or AWD we need to know for sure what transfer case you have.
Give us the no off of the tag on the back of it.
What kind if push buttons does it have on the dash?

There is no button or any type of control, it is all controlled by a computer. The Bravada AWD is different than the 4x4 in that it automatically engages the transfer case. I just want to make sure that if it craps out, I can pull a fuse or do something to eliminate the engagement of AWD. Maybe some Bravada guys could chime in on this one.

There is no button or any type of control, it is all controlled by a computer. The Bravada AWD is different than the 4x4 in that it automatically engages the transfer case. I just want to make sure that if it craps out, I can pull a fuse or do something to eliminate the engagement of AWD. Maybe some Bravada guys could chime in on this one.

If it is a 136 it is a full time 4 wheel drive.
You can not shut off the 4W.
The ATCM module controls torque to front and rear end as needed.
But On some bravada's I have saw the older non elctronic transfer case in them.
That is why I asked for the transfer case tag no. to be sure whart one you have.:grinyes:

This is part of a good post is from Muddog321

"If a Bravada(??) then you really should be using blue AutoTrak syn fluid as the GM bulletin states for your full time case same with the AutoTrac 236 cases. Yours has clutch packs in it."

That said, it looks like many 1998 & newer Bravada AWD problems stem from old transfer case fluid gumming up the electro-clutch and changing the fluid cleans it up.
Some folks have pulled the fuse but that doesn't address a gummed up electro-clutch and problems can still occur. A transfer case fluid change every coupla years should keep the electro clutch in good shape.

This is part of a good post is from Muddog321

"If a Bravada(??) then you really should be using blue AutoTrak syn fluid as the GM bulletin states for your full time case same with the AutoTrac 236 cases. Yours has clutch packs in it."

That said, it looks like many 1998 & newer Bravada AWD problems stem from old transfer case fluid gumming up the electro-clutch and changing the fluid cleans it up.
Some folks have pulled the fuse but that doesn't address a gummed up electro-clutch and problems can still occur. A transfer case fluid change every coupla years should keep the electro clutch in good shape.

So I guess the answer would be no, you cannot electrically disengage the AWD? The AWD is not giving problems...yet. I say that because I've heard that the AWD has given people problem, and Im looking for a reliable vehicle. The last thing I want to do is have to spend a ton of money fixing AWD that he wont use. If I could bypass the AWD if it starts engaging when unneeded, that would make me feel better. I have to make a decision today, if I cannot control anything, I may decide to pass on it. Anyone convince me otherwise.

If an AWD/4WD is not necessary, I wouldn't buy one. You'll dodge other potential problems as well like front driveshaft and front differential/CV joint troubles.