Rod:
Fulltime Dodge trucks came in 1975-1979, including the 1974 Ramcharger and Trailduster SUVs.
Some 2004 and newer Rams offer an available fulltime transfer case.
1980-1984 models have part time 4wd and locking hubs, or "automatic" locking hubs. After 1984, Dodge 4wds came with CAD (Central-Axle Disconnect), which uses a two piece axle shaft on the front end, that dis-engages from the differential and allows one wheel to "free-wheel" when in 2wd mode. This setup uses a vacuum actuator on the t-case shifter to lock the front axle together and engage 4wd. This setup lasted thru 2002, when it was replaced with a true Fulltime front axle setup. The newer Rams all have fulltime front ends, meaning that there are no hubs and no dis-engagement in the front end at all, it always turns. This allows for "shift-on-the fly" engagement of the part time t-case.
So, a 1990 has CAD and vacuum actuator on the shifter. When they're working good, they're fine, but they are prone to failure, as the vacuum lines come off and then you have no 4wd. If you have a problem with one, just ask, as I can tell you how to permanently fix it by converting the front to solid, fulltime operation. Then, all you have to do is pull the lever in the cab for 4wd, that's it! :)
JS
Fulltime Dodge trucks came in 1975-1979, including the 1974 Ramcharger and Trailduster SUVs.
Some 2004 and newer Rams offer an available fulltime transfer case.
1980-1984 models have part time 4wd and locking hubs, or "automatic" locking hubs. After 1984, Dodge 4wds came with CAD (Central-Axle Disconnect), which uses a two piece axle shaft on the front end, that dis-engages from the differential and allows one wheel to "free-wheel" when in 2wd mode. This setup uses a vacuum actuator on the t-case shifter to lock the front axle together and engage 4wd. This setup lasted thru 2002, when it was replaced with a true Fulltime front axle setup. The newer Rams all have fulltime front ends, meaning that there are no hubs and no dis-engagement in the front end at all, it always turns. This allows for "shift-on-the fly" engagement of the part time t-case.
So, a 1990 has CAD and vacuum actuator on the shifter. When they're working good, they're fine, but they are prone to failure, as the vacuum lines come off and then you have no 4wd. If you have a problem with one, just ask, as I can tell you how to permanently fix it by converting the front to solid, fulltime operation. Then, all you have to do is pull the lever in the cab for 4wd, that's it! :)
JS
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