Yes
2 wheel drive, powering fewer components.
I have a 1997 GMC 1500 4 Wheel Drive. When engaging 4 wheel drive there is a popping noise (different than and in addition to the normal sound of it engaging) and it does not always engage. Then it will even have a popping noise once engaged. Any ideas? Thank you for your input. Stan
Assuming you mean fuel mileage, we need to know the year, the engine and if it 2 wheel or all wheel drive.
No it will not change the gas mileage, if it does it's like .5 mile per gallon at most
The 4 wheel drive is not engaging on your 1997 Ford F-250 because you have a bad actuator if it is a push button. If it is not a push button, it could be a bad hub or linkage.
Yes, but it will increase wear on the front part of the drivetrain, and also might decrease mileage a little. I only lock the hubs when I might need 4wd in winter.
The hub actuaters
Check the vaccum lines to the transfer case
Yes you do.
The model year? Front wheel drive or all wheel drive? 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder engine? More info needed.
17 MPG.
There are several disadvantages to having a four wheel drive such as increased tire wear, lower gas mileage and an increased cost for maintenance of the vehicle.