terminology

[rtd]

In looking at a lot of ads, I find the self-explanatory terms 2WD and 4WD. What is MFWD?

Thanks

 

[Willl]

Mechanical Front Wheel Drive

 

[GPintheMitten]

Mechanical Four or Front Wheel Drive. It's front wheel assist.

 

[rsewill]

Nicer than full time four wheel drive. Can usually be engaged on the fly.

 

[rtd]

Thanks for the replies.

In a 'normal' four-wheel drive arrangement I can move a lever to add front wheel drive. I then will have one front wheel and one rear wheel pulling, assuming that I don't have the diff lock engaged. How is MFWD different? Would one work in 2WD, then shift while moving into 4WD? I assume to possibly use less fuel and save wear on the front tires.

I've seen the MDWD tag given on some ads for not very sophisticated machines. Perhaps the dealer doesn't know the difference.

 

[Zebrafive]

On My tractor the clutch for mfwd is electrically controled. At he flip of a switch the clucth pack engages and the drive shaft to the front axle is powered. When braking, the computer engages mfwd to help braking.

I have heard with mfwd you have about 50% more pulling power than when in two wheel drive.