When is the proper time to use your 4 wheel drive?

I turn my overdrive off when driving in the hills or when going down a steep grade where the car wants to run away or when towing. 4x4 is good on snow, ice, mud and sand. Don't use it on hard surfaces as you will damage the transfer case. Some Jeeps can be used as full time 4WD depending on what system they are equipped with.

Just be careful to follow the instructions on your specific vehicle as to speed and driving on dry pavement. 4WD is different from AWD, because of the locking hubs. In 4WD you cannot exceed certain speed especially when you are not on dirt roads. You don't have to worry about this with AWD, they're designed to drive in any road conditions at any speed.

Here is a guide for new users of 4 wheel drive --- http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/a10288/when-do-i- engage-4wd-16634152/

I will add one more thought - The proper time to use 4WD is before you get stuck. Learning to anticipate these conditions takes a little experience but anyone with common sense will get a lot of enjoyment and use out of their 4x4.