Should 4x4 be engaged every once in a while

[air_cooled]

Hello to all - This looks like a great forum!

I've had a few people over the years say that I should engage the 4x4 on a straight road now and then to lubricate the axles etc. Is this neccessary?

Thanks

[94 Z71 Blazer]

I do it at least once a month if not more. What's it gonna hurt? I try to do it on a dirt road and definitely do not engage it on concrete while turning!! You'll chew your tires up!!

[PowDuck]

I believe so, definitely. Here's why. I had a '91 Suburban that had 125K miles on it when I bought it. Shortly thereafter I changed all the diff lubes. When I pulled the front cover off the top half of the ring gear had a light coating of rust on it. There's no telling how long it had been since the 4wd had been engaged.

So, yes, engage it once in a while!!.

[air_cooled]

I bought my '98 Tahoe with 48K, has 54K now. Not sure how much 4x4 it has seen. Changing out diff lubes sounds like a good idea.

Thanks for the info.