1996 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual - Page 256

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) System (If equipped) When you select the 4WD mode, your vehicle uses all four wheels to power itself. This increases traction, enabling you to drive your 4x4 over terrain and road conditions not travelled normally by two-wheel drive vehicles. Power is supplied to all four wheels through a transfer case that allows you to select four-wheel drive when necessary. Methods for engaging and disengaging 4WD and low range will depend on which system your vehicle has. 4WD Systems - Control Trac The Control Trac 4WD system functions in three modes. In two-wheel drive mode, power is delivered only to the rear axle. The 4WD AUTO position provides four-wheel drive with full power delivered to the rear axle, and to the front axle as required for increased traction. The 4WD LOW position provides four-wheel drive with full power delivered to the front and rear axles when above average power is required at reduced speeds. Four-wheel drive operation (4WD LOW) on dry pavement is not recommended. Operating the vehicle in 4WD LOW on dry pavement will increase noise, vibration, tire wear, and decrease fuel economy. Control Trac system indicator lights A 4WD indicator light and a 4WD LOW indicator light are located in the instrument cluster. If either light flashes, take your vehicle in for service. s Two-Wheel Drive mode - Neither the 4WD nor the 4WD LOW lights are lit. s 4WD Auto mode - Only the 4WD light is lit. 256