Chapter 44, Problem 1RQ

To determine

The three main driveline components that are added to an RWD vehicle to make it a 4WD vehicle.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

The three main driveline components that are added to an RWD vehicle to make it a 4WD vehicle are:

1. Front differential and axle.
2. Transfer case.
3. Drive shaft.

Explanation of Solution

Front differential and axle:

In a rear wheel drive (RWD), the axle and differential are placed on the rear side of the vehicle. When it is required to make this RWD vehicle into 4WD vehicle, there arises a need of putting a differential and accordingly axles in the front side of the vehicle also.

Transfer Case:

The transfer case is the heart of all wheel drive or 4WD type of vehicles. The transfer case receives power from the engine and transmits it to the front and rear axles with the help of drive shafts. The transfer case also serves the purpose of synchronizing the difference of rotation between front and rear wheels of the vehicles.

Drive shaft:

A drive shaft or a propeller shaft is used to connect and transmit power and torque from the engine to other parts of the drive train. In a situation when relative movement is required or the components of the drive train are difficult to connect directly due to distance, then it becomes essential to employ the drive shaft. To convert a RWD vehicle into a 4WD vehicle, a drive shaft is also needed.