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Question about Crawl Control on muddy slopes

Discussion in '5th Gen 4Runners (2010-2024)' started by Red_5, Jun 15, 2021.

  1. Jun 15, 2021 at 2:00 PM
    #1
    Red_5

    Red_5 [OP] New Member

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    So here's a question. Does anyone know if Crawl Control keeps the vehicle running straight on muddy slopes?

    Here's why I ask. Around here, the mud has a lot of clay in it. When you drive in it, it'll pull you toward the downward side of road unless it's perfectly flat (and none really are).

    In practice, this means that your rig will slowly slide off a muddy road, even if you're trying to drive straight. Not a huge issue much of the time, but a huge issue if it means sliding off a cliff.

    Is Crawl Control smart enough to keep the vehicle moving straight if the slip angle disagrees with the steering angle?
     
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  2. Jun 15, 2021 at 2:17 PM
    #2
    Daddykool

    Daddykool Photography enthusiast

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    I think crawl is essentially cruise control for ATRAC. ATRAC would strive for traction in the direction of the wheel rotation, but probably wouldn’t notice that the vehicle is sliding slowly sideways. Perhaps someone with experience can correct me?
     
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  3. Jun 15, 2021 at 2:26 PM
    #3
    Dillusion

    Dillusion New Member

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    Seeing as you can still steer I don't think it would know.

    Just keeps track if a wheel is spinning. I don't see how it could tell you are slipping sideways.
     
  4. Jun 15, 2021 at 2:52 PM
    #4
    whippersnapper02

    whippersnapper02 New Member

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    The only goal of mall control is to keep the vehicle moving. VSC keeps the vehicle from sliding but it's off in 4wd low.
     
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  5. Jun 15, 2021 at 2:58 PM
    #5
    Daddykool

    Daddykool Photography enthusiast

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    :rolleyes: Mall control.
     
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  6. Jun 15, 2021 at 3:33 PM
    #6
    kbp810

    kbp810 rebmem wen

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    In those situations, you need wheel speed, and lots of it. You’re best bet is to keep the wheels spinning so they have a chance at clearing themselves out, so they can keep digging away for traction. You’d typically want 4hi and turn off traction control.

    Even then though, those slick muddy/clay hills can be tough (and sketchy) to climb. Sometimes the smart play is to bypass and/or winch up.
     
  7. Jun 15, 2021 at 3:34 PM
    #7
    CJT4Runner

    CJT4Runner Frosty

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    “Mall control”….

    DF72C821-CACC-4554-AFD9-2005149D3FB0.jpg
     
  8. Jun 17, 2021 at 7:37 AM
    #8
    DRobs

    DRobs New Member

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    Pinstripes, lots of em. Plus a couple dents.
    I find it's best to power through those side hill / off camber muddy sections. 4low with the locker engaged - 3rd gear.
    Rock sliders will protect your door panels if there is a wall / rocks sticking up on the downhill side of the trail.

    I'm always amazed at how far sideways I can get my 4Runner.

    Tip - if you start getting tipsy like the 4Runner is going to roll sideways, turn your tires down hill and push through the obstacle.
     
    Last edited: Jun 17, 2021
  9. Jun 17, 2021 at 12:47 PM
    #9
    erfer1

    erfer1 New Member

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    I don't have mall control, but I find 4 hi with TC turned off works best on muddy, slippery inclines. Got to keep power to the wheels as noted above. YMMV
     
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  10. Jun 21, 2021 at 12:43 PM
    #10
    VentureTRD

    VentureTRD New Member

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    It works very well going down hill on snow and especially on ice. My mountain driveway is 25° sloped, often snow and ice covered 3-4 months of the year.

    You can steer it and add breaking, but it's best just to let it do its own thing, use the speed control know to adjust how fast you want to go.

    I think the maximum speed is like 12mph, so don't be in a hurry.
     

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