Kei Truck Drivetrains

Every drivetrain system you will encounter shopping for a kei truck — explained once, in plain language, and reused across every model and comparison page. One canonical page per concept; alternate names like "locker" or "crawler gear" are folded in rather than given their own pages.

Information for guidance only. Always verify trim-level fitment with the auction sheet or a specialist importer before making a purchase decision.

2WD

2WD (rear-wheel drive)

Also called: two-wheel drive, RWD

Paved roads and dry, firm surfaces. The lightest and most fuel-efficient choice.

4WD systems

Part-time (selectable) 4WD

Also called: selectable 4WD, manual 4WD

Loose surfaces only — gravel, mud, snow, wet grass. Engage when you need it, return to 2WD for the road.

Full-time (permanent) 4WD

Also called: permanent 4WD, AWD

Any surface, set-and-forget. Continuous traction without engaging anything.

Real-Time 4WD (automatic on-demand)

Also called: on-demand 4WD, automatic 4WD

Automatic — handles occasional slip on mixed surfaces without any thought from the driver.

Traction aids

Differential lock (diff lock)

Also called: locker, rear diff lock

Low-speed, low-traction situations — one wheel lifted or spinning. Engage at low speed; release for normal driving and turns.

Limited-slip differential (LSD)

Also called: LSD

Continuous, mild traction help — including at road speed. Smoother than a locker.

Gearing

Low range (Hi-Lo crawler gear)

Also called: super-low gear, crawler gear, extra-low, transfer-case low

Steep climbs, heavy hauling at low speed, and precise low-speed control.