My next NEWB Question--Should I disconnect AWD?

BBslider001 · Post by **BBslider001** » 18 Apr 2016, 08:14

I am wondering if disconnecting the AWD in my V70 would help with mileage, performance, and driveability. The car is a pavement queen and will never see snow/ice/muddy conditions. Has anyone else done this and is it a big deal? It also clunks first thing in the morning when I first start backing up. It almost sounds like it is bound up and frees itself. It doesn't do this any other time, only in the morning first thing.

Post by **polskamafia mjl** » 18 Apr 2016, 11:51

Tons of people have converted to FWD. With the P80 vintage cars all of the AWD's fail at some point. Mileage should go up but I don't know by how much.

Post by **scot850** » 18 Apr 2016, 12:33

I reckoned that In city driving our 850 auto GLT (non-turbo) returned around 26 mpg (UK gallon 4.5litres = 1 gallon), and out 98 V70 XC did about 22-23 at best. It was on highway we sow a bigger improvement of 37-40 v's 31-33mpg.

So you should see an improvement of 10-15% in my estimation as a minimum. The only part I am not sure is unless you remove the angle gear, it still causes drag, you also have the rear axle and weight and drag of the rear diff and shafts so you may not see as much of an improvement as you think.

I'd first look and see what is causing the clunk. It may be an engine mount or a worn out bushing, and not the AWD system at all.

ID the issue and let us know.

Good luck!

Neil.

Post by **BEJinFbk** » 18 Apr 2016, 14:41

I'm a big proponent of AWD.

I've run with and without and
IMHO, the car handles better WITH.
Much stickier and changes lanes better.

AWD also completely cancels out torque steer.

Pull your rear rotors and inspect the
E Brake drums and shoes for your clunk...

Just stay on top of tire condition.
P80 AWD Must have matched rubber.

Post by **scot850** » 18 Apr 2016, 15:18

I agree with the AWD sentiments, but unless you are planning to do a lot of skiing or off-road driving, the OP would appear to live in CA where AWD is not really needed. The clunk is likely a parking brake issue which is a great call that I missed on. Good catch!

Neil.

Post by **BEJinFbk** » 18 Apr 2016, 20:08

I'm talking about dry pavement.
AWD makes a significant difference.
Anytime I've run my car sans driveshaft,
I Could Not Wait to have AWD back.

And sure... It's Awesome on snow and ice!

But that's just me - Your results may vary.