The 1999 Honda Crv is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability and versatility. A key feature for many owners is its four-wheel-drive system, but it’s important to understand that the 1999 Honda CRV utilizes a specific type of system called Real Time 4WD (RT4WD). This system is designed to be reactive, engaging only when needed, which is different from full-time four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive systems found in some other vehicles.
So, how does the Real Time 4WD in your 1999 Honda CRV actually work? At the heart of the system is the “dual pump” mechanism located in the rear differential. Imagine a shaft, known as the propeller shaft, connecting the front transmission to the rear differential. This shaft is always spinning when the front wheels are turning. Inside the rear differential, there are two pumps. One pump is driven by the propeller shaft, and the other is driven by the rear axles, which are connected to the rear wheels.
When your 1999 Honda CRV is driving under normal conditions, and all four wheels are rotating at roughly the same speed, both pumps generate similar hydraulic pressure. This equal pressure keeps clutch packs within the rear differential disengaged. In this state, power is primarily sent to the front wheels.
However, if the front wheels begin to lose traction and spin faster than the rear wheels – for example, in slippery conditions like snow or mud – the pump driven by the propeller shaft spins faster than the pump driven by the rear axles. This creates a pressure difference within the rear differential. This pressure difference is what causes the clutch packs to engage. When the clutch packs engage, they mechanically connect the propeller shaft to the rear axles, transferring a portion of the engine’s power to the rear wheels. This helps to regain traction and improve stability in your 1999 Honda CRV. Once traction is regained and the front and rear wheel speeds equalize, the pressure difference disappears, the clutch packs disengage, and the system reverts to primarily front-wheel drive.
[Imagine an image here of a 1999 Honda CRV driving in snow, showcasing its RT4WD capability. Alt text: 1999 Honda CRV navigating snowy road conditions with Real Time 4WD engaged.]
Maintaining the rear differential fluid is crucial for the longevity and proper operation of the RT4WD system in your 1999 Honda CRV. Honda specifies a particular fluid: Honda Dual Pump Fluid II. It is imperative to use only this fluid in your 1999 Honda CRV‘s rear differential. Using other fluids can lead to improper system function and potentially damage the dual pump system or clutch packs. If you are unsure when the rear differential fluid was last changed in your 1999 Honda CRV, it is highly recommended to replace it as part of your regular maintenance schedule. Consult your owner’s manual or a service professional for recommended intervals.
[Imagine an image here of a bottle of Honda Dual Pump Fluid II. Alt text: Honda Dual Pump Fluid II, the recommended fluid for the 1999 Honda CRV Real Time 4WD system.]
Finally, because of the way the Real Time 4WD system in the 1999 Honda CRV relies on wheel speed differences to engage, it is essential that all four tires are the same size, model, and have relatively even tread wear. Significant differences in tire size or tread depth can cause the system to behave erratically or prematurely wear components. Always ensure your 1999 Honda CRV is fitted with a matched set of tires to maintain optimal RT4WD performance and vehicle safety.
In conclusion, the Real Time 4WD system in the 1999 Honda CRV is a reactive and efficient system designed to provide extra traction when needed. Understanding how it works and maintaining it properly with Honda Dual Pump Fluid II and correctly matched tires will ensure the continued reliability and capability of your 1999 Honda CRV for years to come.
