Joseph Weaver If you’re a Subaru owner or thinking of becoming one, you’ve probably heard of the low range system. But what is it exactly, and how does it work? In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the workings of Subaru’s low range system and explain its benefits, so you can make the most of your vehicle.
Key Takeaways
- The low range system is a feature in Subaru vehicles that allows for increased torque and control in off-road and low-speed situations.
- It works by using a set of gears to multiply the engine’s torque output, effectively slowing down the vehicle and increasing its pulling power.
- To engage low range, you need to be in neutral and below a certain speed, usually around 10-15 mph.
- Low range is not designed for use on high-traction surfaces like pavement, and should only be used on low-traction surfaces like mud, snow, or steep inclines.
What is Subaru Low Range?
Subaru’s low range system is a feature found in many of their vehicles, including the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek. It’s designed to provide increased torque and control in low-speed situations, such as off-roading, climbing steep hills, or navigating through snow and mud.
So how does it work? Essentially, the low range system uses a set of gears to multiply the engine’s torque output, effectively slowing down the vehicle and increasing its pulling power. This provides greater control and stability when driving on low-traction surfaces, allowing you to navigate difficult terrain with ease.
Benefits of Using Low Range
There are a number of benefits to using low range in your Subaru vehicle. Here are just a few:
👍 Increased Control: Low range provides greater control and stability when driving on low-traction surfaces, allowing you to navigate difficult terrain with ease.
👍 More Torque: By multiplying the engine’s torque output, low range provides more pulling power, making it easier to climb steep hills or pull heavy loads.
👍 Less Strain on the Vehicle: When driving on low-traction surfaces, your vehicle’s wheels can easily spin, putting a lot of strain on the engine and transmission. By slowing down the vehicle and increasing torque, low range reduces this strain and helps to prolong the life of your vehicle.
How to Engage Low Range
Engaging low range in your Subaru vehicle is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid damaging your vehicle. Here’s how to engage low range:
- Bring your vehicle to a complete stop and shift into neutral.
- While holding down the brake pedal, shift the transmission into low range mode.
- Release the brake pedal and begin driving.
It’s important to note that low range should only be engaged on surfaces with low traction, such as mud, snow, or steep inclines. Using low range on high-traction surfaces like pavement can cause damage to your vehicle.
Additionally, most Subaru vehicles require you to be below a certain speed, usually around 10-15 mph, to engage low range. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your vehicle.
Understanding the Mechanics of Low Range
To better understand how low range works, let’s take a closer look at the mechanical components involved.
Most Subaru vehicles with low range use a planetary gear system. This system utilizes a set of gears that are arranged in a circle around a central sun gear. A ring gear surrounds the planetary gears, and a carrier holds them in place.
When the transmission is in high gear, the carrier is held stationary, and power is transmitted through the sun gear to the planetary gears, which then transmit power to the ring gear.
When low range is engaged, the carrier is allowed to rotate, which changes the gear ratio and multiplies the engine’s torque output. This has the effect of slowing down the vehicle and increasing its pulling power, making it easier to navigate difficult terrain.
When to Use Low Range
Low range is not a feature that should be used all the time. In fact, it should only be used in specific situations, such as:
👉 Off-Roading: If you plan on doing any serious off-roading, low range is an essential tool. It provides greater control and stability on difficult terrain, allowing you to navigate through mud, sand, and rocks with ease.
👉 Climbing Steep Hills: When climbing steep hills, low range provides more torque and pulling power, making it easier to reach the top.
👉 Towing: If you’re towing a heavy load, low range can help reduce the strain on your vehicle’s engine and transmission, helping to prolong its life.
It’s important to remember that low range is not designed for use on high-traction surfaces like pavement. Using it in these situations can cause damage to your vehicle and reduce its lifespan.
Conclusion
Subaru’s low range system is a powerful tool for navigating difficult terrain and providing increased control in low-speed situations. By understanding how it works and when to use it, you can make the most of your Subaru vehicle and get the most out of your off-roading adventures.
Remember to engage low range correctly, always use it on low-traction surfaces, and never use it on high-traction surfaces like pavement. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the low range system and enjoying all the benefits it has to offer.
