Advice on 4WD/Tires and Block Heater - Best Practices
 

Hey folks,

I'm a new Liberty owner - a convert from cars and minivans. So my mid-life crisis means I now have to get used to the higher centre of gravity, thinner frame and rear wheel drive. I'd love to get some tips for my 2002 Liberty Limited, if you don't mind:

Our roads are sometimes glazed with ice/snow. The all-seasons are in great shape, but I do get a fair bit of fish-tailing. So I find myself using 4HI a fair bit, but I've heard taking turns and even general use on flat pavement can be hard on the mechanics. What's the best practice for shifting in and out of 4WD on flat pavement?

I've also been having a hard time getting stats on mileage for 2WD vs. 4WD - does anybody have info on how much more I consume while in 4WD?

Do winter tires make a great deal of difference, or would I still be reaching for 4WD?

And finally, about the block heater, does anyone have advice on temperatures and times? When do I plug in the Jeep, and for how long? I've heard 2 hours is good for anything below -15 C, especially since the oil lines are thinner than most vehicles (apparently).

Thanks.

Re: Advice on 4WD/Tires and Block Heater - Best Practices
 

Congrats!

I can tell you that a good set of AT or MT tires make a world of difference. There are lot's of good choices out there. The ST's or SRA's that come stock on the liberty are absolutely useless. I rarely need 4WD in snow and mud... of course your use of the skinny pedal can make a big difference with regard to traction.

this will get you up to speed on Command/Select trac
Jeep - 4x4 Basics - How Jeep 4x4 Systems Work - Selec-Trac II - 4WD SUVs

I can tell you the gas mileage difference is minimal in 4wd. It makes a difference but not a glaring one.

Can't help you with the block heater ... my KJ is spoiled with a heated garage :)

All the best,

Re: Advice on 4WD/Tires and Block Heater - Best Practices
 

The 2002 has the Command trac system. If you are driving on snow covered roads you will be fine. as long as it is not dry pavement you should not do any damage to the shafts. I am using Extreme avalanche tires on my 02 Liberty and I can crawl over most of the snow during our Newfoundland winters in 2WD. Same when I am four wheeling I use dunlop AT tires and find them great in mud.