AWD system?

Tiny
DEQUESO
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 CHEVROLET ASTRO
  • 2.3L
  • V6
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 86,000 MILES
Tried to pull out of some snow front wheels worked but started spinning rear wheels were on dry ground when front was spinning rear did nothing had to rock back and forth finally the front grabbed. This vehicle has AWD does the tow haul system have anything 2 do with it?
Sunday, February 26th, 2023 AT 10:56 AM

6 Replies

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 12,980 POSTS
If it has AWD but the rear axle wasn't working, you need to verify it even has the rear driveshaft installed. The design is such that the transmission output goes into the transfer case and then straight out the rear to the rear axle. There is a chain inside that transfers power over to the front axle output. Unless there is no drive shaft, or the rear differential has a failure the rear wheels will be powered. The easiest test would be to get the rear axle off the ground and with the transmission in park try to rotate one rear tire, If the other side rotates the opposite direction, it's likely the differential isn't the issue. Now lock the opposite side from turning and try to rotate the tire again while watching the driveshaft, it shouldn't move. If it does, then something in the transfer case output has failed.
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Sunday, February 26th, 2023 AT 1:19 PM
Tiny
DEQUESO
  • MEMBER
  • 38 POSTS
Good info it does have a drive shaft to the rear wheels and the transfer case, but I have not tested it per your info, but I will problem is I am in no. Ca and under winter storm so it will be a while before I can get to it, so if there is any other info u can give will be appreciated, I can check all. I will keep the info in my file and get back to you as soon as things clear I hope you don't mind waiting a little while and I will get back to you. Thank you
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Monday, February 27th, 2023 AT 5:14 AM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 12,980 POSTS
No rush, I know what it's like to have an open-air workshop.
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Monday, February 27th, 2023 AT 6:31 AM
Tiny
DEQUESO
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  • 38 POSTS
Sounds good.
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Monday, February 27th, 2023 AT 7:13 AM
Tiny
DEQUESO
  • MEMBER
  • 38 POSTS
Steve, thanks for the info. Just to let you know all good followed your advice.
Thank you
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Tuesday, June 27th, 2023 AT 10:37 AM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 12,980 POSTS
Hope you got it all sorted out.
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Tuesday, June 27th, 2023 AT 4:32 PM

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