4x4 differences with other vehicles

[Pocono-Jeep]

This is potentially a stupid question, but I'm going to throw it out there anyway. Is there anything different about the JT's transfer case / 4x4 setup that makes it more prone to binding than other 4x4 vehicles?

Background: I know binding occurs due to a speed difference and lack of a differential between the front and the rear wheels. I know that it's a very bad idea to engage 4H on dry paved roads, and I haven't done it except to test shifting in and out of 4H/4L. I don't have much experience with 4x4 vehicles - the only other one I owned was a gen3 Pathfinder and in 4H I don't remember the Pathfinder being anywhere near as difficult to turn.

So I'm just wondering if there is something mechanically different that accounts for this on the JT. I'm also wondering how different the steering would be on the JT in proper 4H conditions (deep snow on public roads, soft sand, etc).

Thanks in advance - looking forward to learning more about this.

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[Chazsquatch]

I couldn't explain it well but maybe you'll have a better understanding by reading this article

https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/gearhead-101-how-part-time-four-wheel-drive-works/

 

[Renegade]

The long wheelbase contributes to a greater speed differential between the front and rear axles when turning. This will cause more bind when 4x4 is engaged during tight turns.

 

[Pocono-Jeep]

Looks like 112" on the Gen3 Pathfinder vs 137" on the JT. Pretty big difference. That might explain why it seemed much more noticeable on the JT. The AoM article was also helpful - thanks. None of the concepts were new to me, but the stern warnings about using 4WD on dry roads were welcome. Thanks for the replies. I'll stop trying to break my new truck now.

 

[MonkeySkunks]

I couldn't explain it well but maybe you'll have a better understanding by reading this article

https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/gearhead-101-how-part-time-four-wheel-drive-works/

That's a great article.

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