Jeep Larado AWD OK for Beach Driving

[rdlarado10]

Had a great Tahoe 4x4 that was superb in the sand, but just got rid of it to pick up a new 2010 Jeep Larado (3.7L 5 cyl.) with full time AWD (no low). The Tahoe was old but in good shape, and I had a deal on this one that I could not pass up.

The 2000 Tahoe had real 4wd with Lo. Drove it on Cape Cod and IBSP with no problems at all.

Jeep has Quadra-Trac I system, and I am not that familiar with it as I just picked the car up.

Will this be sufficient to use for driving on the sand, or do you need full time 4wd for this task?

Is the AWD system any better that other AWD systems in other vehicles like Honda or Toyota?

It does have nice clearance though.

Thanks for any feedback.

Rich

[Jess]

The Quadra-Trac I System that is on your Jeep runs in 2 wheel drive until it senses slip. Then it runs in 4x4.

The big question is how much slip is needed before it kicks in.
We all know it doesn't take much to dig yourself in on the sand.

[rdlarado10]

Originally Posted by Jess

The Quadra-Trac I System that is on your Jeep runs in 2 wheel drive until it senses slip. Then it runs in 4x4.

The big question is how much slip is needed before it kicks in.
We all know it doesn't take much to dig yourself in on the sand.

Thanks Jess.

Jeep does not give you enough info to really know.

Hoping someone who has this system on their jeep sees this and responds.

Regards, Rich

[RobS]

here's some other info... but I've read that AWD is not great on sand. Brigantine explicitly forbids AWD only vehicles in its permit.

http://www.wkjeeps.com/wk_4x4.htm#QTI

[Jess]

I think with proper deflation, smart driving and the weight of the vehicle you should have no problem.

[rdlarado10]

Originally Posted by RobS

here's some other info... but I've read that AWD is not great on sand. Brigantine explicitly forbids AWD only vehicles in its permit.

http://www.wkjeeps.com/wk_4x4.htm#QTI

Thanks Rob. Good info.

Regards,


Rich

[RobS]

Rich,

As Jess said, being smart about it, you probably would be ok. You're not running dunes out west after all!

Sugar sand still makes me nervous in spots...even in 4wd low with my liberty.

[rdlarado10]

Originally Posted by RobS

Rich,

As Jess said, being smart about it, you probably would be ok. You're not running dunes out west after all!

Sugar sand still makes me nervous in spots...even in 4wd low with my liberty.

Thanks Guys, very much appreciated.

I am pretty careful, and not looking to "tear it up" at all.

It does have fairly large tires on it stock that once properly deflated should provide decent flotation, and from what I have gathered from the awd system info here and previously, it seems the jeep awd system is just a bit more aggressive than say the system I have on my Honda CR-V, which is FWD first, then the rear kicks in when slippage is detected.

I would never consider taking the Honda onto the sand, btw.

Guess I'll go get my tow hooks put on it, and give her a try this year.

Thanks again, Rich

[Bob D'Amico]

I have owned Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredos with Quadra-Trac. In my opinion they are far SUPERIOR to standard Command Trac 4x4 system. The Quadra-Trac system allows the engine and transmission to run smoother, at less RPM's, it's just a better overall experience. I have never gotten stuck with a Jeep, even in "sugar sand" conditions.

My current Jeep has Command Trac only because the dealer gave me a huge discount to unload the vehicle. All things considered, IMHO Quadra-Trac is the best, on and off road. You don't need tow hooks!

Please be sure to deflate your tires to a minimum of 15psi. If you sense that the Jeep is laboring or slipping in the sand, GET OUT and lower your tire pressure to 12 psi. BTW I have always used the standard tires on my Jeeps, they work just fine on sand.

[rdlarado10]

Originally Posted by Bob D'Amico

I have owned Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredos with Quadra-Trac. In my opinion they are far SUPERIOR to standard Command Trac 4x4 system. The Quadra-Trac system allows the engine and transmission to run smoother, at less RPM's, it's just a better overall experience. I have never gotten stuck with a Jeep, even in "sugar sand" conditions.

My current Jeep has Command Trac only because the dealer gave me a huge discount to unload the vehicle. All things considered, IMHO Quadra-Trac is the best, on and off road. You don't need tow hooks!

Please be sure to deflate your tires to a minimum of 15psi. If you sense that the Jeep is laboring or slipping in the sand, GET OUT and lower your tire pressure to 12 psi. BTW I have always used the standard tires on my Jeeps, they work just fine on sand.

Thanks a lot for the info. So, you have used the Quadra Trac I on sand with good experience. Just want to make sure it's QTI with just the Hi and no Lo function.

With the QTI, are the differentials both front and back limited slip difs and not open difs? Cannot seem to find that info anywhere.

Thanks again for taking the time to help me out figuring this stuff out.

Rich

[Bob D'Amico]

With the QTI, are the differentials both front and back limited slip difs and not open difs?

No idea, I just know it works quite well.