R32 Gtr 4Wd System Question From A Newbie

[Hornet2572]

Hey guys,

I have a bit of a basic question regarding the 4WD system in the R32 GTR. I am currently in the market to purchase a GTR, and have been viewing and test driving a few lately. I have found one which I am very keen to purchase, everything is spot-on with it, however;

Several times during the test drive, the 4WD light on the dash cluster flashed on and off. Being new to Skylines, I assumed that was an indication that the system was sending power/drive to the front wheels, in much the same way a traction control light flashes on and off when it engages. I didn't think to ask the owner of the car, given that I had assumed I knew what it was doing. I have since spoken to a mate who used to have a GTR who said he couldn't recall that ever happening in his,

I've done a bit of searching in here, and on google etc, and have found plenty of info on error codes from ATTESA and the likes, but nothing to confirm or deny the reason the light would just flash on and off randomly during drive.

Is anyone able to shed any light? Does this sound like a fault with the system? Or is it just simply coming on to say that the system is activating?

Thanks in advance,

Matt.

Edited August 24, 2013 by Hornet2572

[blind_elk]

The lights are error indicators ("Warning! Warning! Danger, Will Robinson"). Normally if the light comes on it stays on until you stop and re-start the engine. Could be any number of reasons why it might "flash".

[Sinista32]

As blind_elk indicated there is a number of reasons why. You would have to go through a process of elimination

- sensors in the front hubs (dirty)

- rolling diameter of rim/tyre combo

- attessa ECU

- fluid level

- Gsensor

- wiring

- something else all together

[Hornet2572]

Thanks for the quick replies. I'll do some more investigating on the car then and see what the story is. Much appreciated

[GTSBoy]

Another to add to the list would be the pressure sensor. If there is some wear or similar issue, or simply a low fluid level you might get a short low pressure condition. Or the sensor could be faulty.

There are so many many ways that these old ATTESA systems can break that you either get one fully checked out before you buy, then proceed confidently knowing it's in good condition, or you buy one assuming that nearly everything in it is ready to fail and plan to spend more $$ on it. Probably soon.

[Hornet2572]

I see. I think ill do a bit more asking and investigating before I put any money down.