AWD Questions

[GC1999]

How does AWD on a Caravan work ? Is there a switch for it ? Does it increase the maintenance costs ? Any disadvantages ??

Thanks in advance...

[KManiac]

The AWD unit is a full-time, active device with no electronic or mechanical switching. The unit attaches to the right side of the transaxle. It contains a series of clutches within the unit. When the unit senses a loss of traction in the front wheels, it transfers power to the rear wheels through this unit. There is a small differential in the rear that splits power between the rear wheels.

Chrysler recommends a fluid change in the AWD unit and rear differential every 60,000 miles.

[Vats]

Originally Posted by GC1999

How does AWD on a Caravan work ? Is there a switch for it ? Does it increase the maintenance costs ? Any disadvantages ??

Thanks in advance...

What year is your vehicle? I Have a 1999 AWD. The power is always split 90% front 10% rear. So the AWD is live all the time. The power transfer unit replaces the right transmission extension housing found on front drive models. Viscous coupling at the front of the shaft directs power to the rear. At the rear before the rear differential there is the overruning clutch whuch allows the front and rear wheels to run at different speeds. Attached to the overruning clutch is a vacum operated unit that actuates the rear drive.

The max it will go is a 50-50 power split. Generally a very good system. My uncle has one with 500,000+Km now, and mine is at the 250,000km point. Small leaks common on the rear diff, but nothing major, and levels are easy to check. The overruninng clutch asssembly requires transmission fluid. Great in snow!