General 4x4 question

[sevansounds]

Hello all....2012 f250 super duty owner here, loving the truck, just a couple questions regarding the use of 4x4.

I know you aren't supposed to use 4x4 on dry pavements but I was just running a small test the other day and noticed something that had me asking questions.
When I locked into 4x4 high and low and pulled forward a little bit I noticed as I was making a slight turn that it seemed like the back tires (i think it was the back tires) seemed to be dragging with quite a bit of friction it. It kinda freaked me out enough to quickly dis-engage 4x4 because I thought something was wrong.

I know that you have to stop and go into neutral to go into 4x4 low but am I supposed to be rolling at a slow speed when I go into 4x4 high or do I stop, go into neutral and make the shift, then back into drive and begin pulling forward?

I haven't done much off roading yet but the little I have done seemed to be fine though it was in dirt.

I'm also not 100% clear on the markers on the hubs. There are 2 markers so its kind of difficult to know when exactly it is in lock and when its in auto. There is an "off" marker in the center as well. The manual says counterclock wise for lock and clockwise for auto (or maybe the other way around I don't have the manual in front of me) either way would just like a bit more info about it all. Thanks

[Ryan2011dieselpower]

It's gripping because the front axle is engaged.

[TX_TRU_STUD]

subbed.........

[Painted Horse]

When you are on dry pavement with no slip. And have it in 4x4. you will have both axles with power and trying to grip. Hence you will feel some give as one of the tires slips to release pressure. Since not all 4 tires will travel the same distance through any arc or curve. If one tire travels a shorter distance than another. Something has to give and you feel the slip or hop.

In snow, mud or soft soils, That slip is lost in the softer traction.

[strokinpower]

you can shift into high range at any speed up to like 50mph or something but to shift into low range you have to be in neutral with your foot on the brake.

[5W0P3]

Originally Posted by strokinpower

you can shift into high range at any speed up to like 50mph or something but to shift into low range you have to be in neutral with your foot on the brake.

my '99.5 will go in 4wd at 70mph with ESOF... not sure about the newer fords though.