Off-road experiences with single speed transfer case

AJMBLAZER · January 27

No, it’d be exactly the same except the Terrain mode uses brakes to help hold the vehicle in place so it doesn’t lurch forward while going downhill or back while going uphill.

asilverblazer · January 29

On 1/27/2024 at 5:25 PM, TrueBlue said:

... I know the 4H doesn't offer any gear reduction, as opposed to the 4L... having these single speed transfer cases in 4H with the tranny in 1 or 2... would deliver something that approaches 4L, at least in on-road and light off-road application... better than 4H with the tranny in auto mode, right?

I think I understand what you are saying. In 4H with the transmission selector in L1 it will allow the engine to control vehicle speed better than in D, where it would upshift automatically. Going downhill it could exhibit some additional control, and could limit wheel spin speed when accelerating on slippery surfaces. The bold portion above... I generally disagree with because of the (IMO) significant difference in gearing; I understand your comparison and suggestion of similar mechanical operation.

DubVBenz · January 29

I sure hope my 24 SLT with Max Towing and the Duramax 3.0 can do what I need without 4lo. By the time I was committed I realized you couldn't get the GMC with NHT and a 2-speed transfer case. You can get the high country version with both, but I wanted the GMC for other reasons. I'm not intending to do any serious off roading, but I do intend to take advantage of the max tow for (mostly) highway use. I have a Kubota 39HP tractor that I can use for localized yard/farm work. In fact, I bought the truck just to tow the tractor for the most part.

Camo55 · January 30

I think, as many have stated, it’s going to all come down to what your intentions with the truck are. I wouldn’t exactly call the single speed trucks “grocery getters”……. I’m sure they can accomplish much of what’s need in grey situations. According to my dealership service department, you DO NOT wear much if any of your brake pads when utilizing Terrain Mode. It has been described to me as an extremely sensitive system when it comes to the braking system while in use. True? Who knows….. but I really can’t see GM installing this setup without at least warning owners that your going to burn up some delicate parts if ya use it