Four-wheel drive vehicles are designed for rugged terrain, so it’s important to service them regularly. It includes checking for any wear or damage and changing essential lubrication.
Routine maintenance can vary from vehicle to vehicle and system to system, so it’s vital to consult your owner’s manual when scheduling services. In addition, consider where you often drive and how much time your vehicle spends traversing rugged terrain.
Serpentine Belt Replacement
Serpentine belts are a vital part of your 4WD vehicle. They connect the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and water pump to the engine so that all accessories run efficiently. Without a serpentine belt, these vital parts would not work or could stop altogether, making it impossible to drive the car and potentially causing severe damage to your engine.
The procedure to replace your serpentine belt is relatively simple. First, you will need a tool to remove the tensioner from your belt, and most vehicles have this tool already installed. Then, once the device is terminated, you must use a wrench or ratchet with the correct socket to release the tensioner.
Using the same brand and model as your existing serpentine belt is essential when replacing a belt. It is especially important to return an older belt with a newer model. You should also ensure you install the belt according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Regular inspections and replacements of your car’s serpentine belt and other hoses can prevent breakage and costly repairs. Several factors, including age, mileage, belt tension, and the condition of hose clamps, contribute to wear and tear in these components.
If you notice any signs that your belt is not working as it should, you can schedule an appointment with our expert team for an assessment and replacement.
Differential & Transfer Case Fluid Replacement
Differentials and transfer cases are critical to your four-wheel drive vehicle’s system. They allow your tires to rotate at different speeds, helping your truck make sharp turns and avoid drivetrain binding. Without a differential, the front or rear wheels would have to spin at the same rate, resulting in uneven wear, poor handling, and potentially damaging your drivetrain.
It may be time for a service if your vehicle has a differential. Our technicians can test the differential and ensure it’s working correctly, and we can also replace the fluid.
A differential is a mechanical device that spends both the left and right wheel but lets the outer one spin faster than the inner one. It helps the vehicle turn when it is going around a corner or turning onto a new street.
Some vehicles have a centre differential with low-range gearing that increases the torque to the front and rear wheels as the car turns, while others have only a front differential that sends power to the rear axle. Regardless of your vehicle’s size, it needs to be drained and replaced with fluid that meets or exceeds its manufacturer’s specifications.
The differential and transfer cases are filled with fluid to lubricate their internal components and dissipate heat. When this fluid is compromised by foreign particles, excessive heat, water or pressure, it can cause the gears to lock up and seize up.
In addition to changing the fluid, your 4WD service Adelaide transfer case should be drained and cleaned. It will remove debris and improve how liquid lubricates the components.
If your transfer case is experiencing issues, it can reduce the efficiency of your transmission and affect the ability of your vehicle to convert to four-wheel drive. It is especially important if you frequently drive on rough or slippery terrain. If you have problems with your transfer case, contact Canadian Super Shop to schedule a repair appointment.
U-Joint Replacement
The most common sign that you need to replace your U-joint is when you notice clunking noises coming from the joint. This sound is caused by excessive play in the u-joint and can be heard whenever you shift gears or accelerate or decelerate the vehicle.
If the squeaking worsens, you must replace the u-joints and driveshaft. You can no longer transfer power through the drive shaft, so you must call a mechanic as soon as possible.
You can replace a U-joint independently but must have the correct tools. It includes a wrench, screwdrivers, and a hammer.
Once you have all the necessary tools, remove your old u-joint and replace your new one. Again, this should be easy, and you can do it without professional assistance if you know how.
The u-joint should be in the proper position and pressed into the yoke that holds it. Using snap rings or C-clips to hold it in place would be best. If the u-joint is packed into an irregular shape, you may need to have it modified by a machinist to be compatible with the vehicle.
Oil Change
As with any vehicle, the oil in your 4WD vehicle must be changed regularly. It’s a critical component, circulating fluid throughout the system to help lubricate the moving parts and protect the engine from overheating and long-term damage.
Your owner’s manual will have instructions on how often to change your oil, but remember that this can vary from vehicle to vehicle and even from system to system. Depending on your driving habits, where you live, and how much time your car spends on rough terrain, your 4WD service Adelaide system might need a little extra TLC to keep it in peak condition.
Another component that needs to be inspected is the U-joints. These joints allow the transmission to flex and articulate, but they can quickly wear out. This common problem can cause vibrations, clunking noises, and resistance while maneuvering.
Inspecting the differentials for leaks and replacing the oil if necessary is essential. Differential fluid breaks down over time and gets dirty, compromising the oil’s ability to lubricate the gears.
A high-quality, synthetic-based 4WD oil should be used for optimum performance. The type and grade of oil will depend on your vehicle’s manufacturer and driving habits.
The final step is to wipe down the fill-hole plug and cover it with a clean, lint-free cloth. Be sure to use a light abrasive pad or razor scraper to remove any metal particles that might have accumulated in the oil tank or around the plug.