Principles of Operation - Electronic Shift on the Fly (ESOF) System

The electronic shift on the fly (ESOF) system is an electronic shift system that allows the operator to choose between 2 different 4x4 modes as well as 2-wheel drive. The operator can switch between 2H and 4H mode at speeds up to 88 km/h (55 mph). To engage or disengage 4L, the 4x4 generic electronic module (GEM) requires that the vehicle speed be less than 5 km/h (3 mph), the brake pedal pressed and the transmission in NEUTRAL (or clutch pedal applied on manual transmission vehicles). This system contains pulse vacuum hublocks (PVH). The selector on the hublock, when turned fully counterclockwise to the AUTO position, engages/disengages the hub depending on the driver-selected 4x4 mode of operation. The hublocks also contain a manual override. When the selector is rotated fully clockwise to the LOCK position, the 4x4 vacuum and electronic system used for coupling the front axle to the wheels is bypassed.

The transfer case is equipped with a dual-cone synchronous clutch. This clutch is used to synchronize the front driveline to the rear. All other internals operate in the same manner as the manual shift system. When the mode select switch (MSS) on the instrument panel is turned, the 4x4 module powers the transfer case shift motor, which activates a shift fork and engages the clutch. When the shift motor reaches the desired position, as determined by the encoder position inputs to the 4x4 module, power to the shift motor is removed. When the transfer case front and rear output shafts are synchronized, the lockup collar mechanically engages the mainshaft hub to the drive sprocket. At this point, the front axle PVHs are engaged. Instrument cluster "4x4" and "Low Range" indicator operation is controlled via hardwired outputs from the 4x4 module.