Hi again,

I tried out my 4WD for the first time yesterday and when I get up to about 20 to 40 MPH, there is a noticeable sound when I push the accelerator pedal. As soon as I let off the gas, it goes away. Its hard to describe the sound, but its like a rubbing/white noise or "shhhhhhhhhhh" type sound.

Should the truck sound different in 4WD compared to 2WD? Since the truck is brand new, is there some sort of break in that occurs the front drive system?

My old truck (Tundra) sounded the same in 2 or 4 wheel drive.

 

Did you do it on dry pavement?

 

Yes, it was pavement, but in a straight line and for a short distance.

 

I don't think I've ever noticed a difference in sound, but I've never kept it in 4wd above 20MPH or so... no real need to.

 

That was the first problem.


and I dont hear any difference in mine.

 

I need to run 4WD regularly in the winter at 40-50 mph -

In both my '08 & '09, I hear the same sound when accelerating - almost an air rushing or woosh sound - normal as far as I am concerned.

 

Yes, that's a good description of the sound. Air rushing/woosh sound only on acceleration. The harder I accelerate, the louder it is. Its interesting that some have this and others do not notice any difference in 4wd.

 

maybe i have heard that sound, but its not very noticable. But most time im using 4hi is because its needed and noise from the terrain is just as loud.

 

Well it is a very subtle sound -

When I am running like that (40-50 on snow or ice) I usually have the stereo turned off, and am "in tune" with my truck not only feeling but listening for any tire slip.

 

If it is safe enough to do 40 or 50, you don't need 4WD. The biggest problem on snow and ice is stopping, which 4WD doesn't help with.....

 

Yeah, I agree that 4wd is only to be used when needed and at slower speeds. The only time I ever use 4wd is in the winter on snow covered roads. I do sometimes drive up to 40 mph in those conditions depending on the kind of snow on the ground (light fluffy vs compact icy). In the non-winter months, I usually find a gravel road and run 4wd a bit just to keep things lubed.

The only reason I asked about it was because my previous truck didn't make this kind of sound in 4wd. I've never owned a Ford before so this is new to me.

 

Now that you own a real truck...

 

Haha.

 

I've noticed a similar noise on my 08 and as far as i know it's just from all the additional parts that have to turn.

 

Well, sometime I will take you for a ride on my run to work everyday - 2WD is fine on snow pack in a straight flat line, but not on a road with 20 switchbacks going up/down a mountain.